Council teams clean up following Storm Arwen

Over the weekend Storm Arwen caused widespread damage and disruption across the borough. The high winds from Friday night and Saturday brought down over 100 trees, with roads blocked and areas affected by power cuts.

Councillor Karen Shore, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Environment, Highways & Strategic Transport said: “The impact of Storm Arwen has been severe, our Highways and Streetcare teams have been dealing with more reports than ever previously recorded. In a co-ordinated, joint effort, our Streetcare and Highways teams, supported by our contractors worked throughout the day and night and across the weekend to respond to the effects of the storm. Work is continuing.

“The clean-up has started but understandably this is a huge task across the borough. I’d like to pass on thanks to all the teams who have worked throughout the weekend in dangerous conditions.”

Social media messaging throughout the weekend shared the storm warnings and encouraged residents to report fallen tree to telephone: 0300 123 7036

Messages were also shared for residents to report power cuts to: 105 or directly to SP Energy Network on 0800 001 5400 and to also check the latest information from their website.

Teams are now fully engaged in the clear-up operation, clearing branches, leaves, debris and rubbish after the storm. The winds have deposited large quantities of leaves and debris in certain areas, and these are being prioritised, particularly where they coincide with high-risk flood areas.

Officers will be inspecting parks and open spaces to ensure paths are open and unobstructed and any damaged or dangerous trees reported for remedial action. This is an extensive clean-up operation which will take time to complete so residents are asked to be patient while the teams work to clear the aftermath of this major weather event.

Cold weather also affected the borough over the weekend, further complicating operations. Winter operations are now in place and daily social media messages are advising if gritting will take place across the network. Up to date information on gritting is available on twitter by searching #cwacgrit