Local councils have been widely praised for the gritting work carried out before Christmas in order to keep roads moving and main streets safe. With long-range weather forecasts for January currently predicting a colder-than-average month ahead, however, all London councils have been asked to "conserve" grit in order to prepare for unusual weather conditions.

"Our teams have done a brilliant job, working every night to keep

Haringey moving and ensure that by and large residents and

businesses have been able to operate normally," says Haringey's Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Cllr Nilgun Canver.

Street cleaning teams in both Islington and Haringey cleared snow and gritted icy roads and pavements, enabling businesses to stay open and rubbish and recycling collections to be made.

"I would love to continue gritting all areas, including pavements in

residential roads, but that would be irresponsible when we have been

asked to conserve grit," adds Cllr Canver. "Although London is generally in a good position

with regards to grit this year, we are being asked to be cautious as we

face unprecedented and unusual - for the south - weather conditions."

Gritting is usually carried out when  the road temperature is at or below freezing (rather than the air temperature) and when moisture is present and likely to form ice. Transport for London is responsible for gritting many key routes through the area, as well as tube and rail stations, with local councils looking after the remainder of main streets and services.

No snow is forecast over the next few days, but in the event of icy conditions (which can arise without snowfall), gritting will be restricted to priority areas in order to keep supplies available for further cold snaps.

If you have a question or need advice on snow clearance and gritting, call Haringey council on 020 8489 1000, or Islington council on 020 7527 2000.