Dumbartonshire Council take 'decisive action' to improve area's roads

Stock image of pothole (Image: Shutterstock)

West Dunbartonshire Council has purchased five multi-use vehicles to improve the area's roads.

The vehicles will be used all year round, replacing the need to hire hotbox vehicles, which are used mainly in spring and summer, and gritters, which are used during the colder months.

This move is expected to save the council £171,000 annually.

The five vehicles will be supplied with multiple bodies, allowing for a quick change of use.

They comprise five gritters, which can be changed to two hotboxes for fixing potholes, and three tippers.

This will increase efficiency and reliability as the service will have more control over accessing vehicles when required.

This change will also mean the service has the ability to undertake permanent repairs for other services within the council at a lower cost.

Councillor David McBride, convener of infrastructure, regeneration, and economic development, said: "This move is a sensible and pragmatic approach.

"It builds resilience in our roads service while also making savings."

Councillor Lawrence O’Neill, vice convener of infrastructure, regeneration, and economic development, said: "I am delighted to hear that these vehicles will be available to the council to use as it sees fit.

"Changing climates have a serious impact on our roads and so being able to address gritting needs as well as pothole repairs throughout the year is vital."

The council hopes that the new vehicles will help improve the condition of the area's roads and make them safer for all users.