Work of Highland Council’s storm response team acknowledged
The action taken by Highland Council’s roads teams across the region in response to the impact of storms has been recognised.
The team (pictured) confirmed they were delighted to win the Team of the Year at the recent Highland Council Staff Recognition Awards.
Environment and Infrastructure chair Ken Gowans said: “The teams have dealt with numerous storm events over this 2023/24 winter season, facing snowstorms, high winds, flooding and landslips - working day and night in extreme weather conditions to deal with the impact and to keep the road network open.
“They are often regarded as 'the fourth emergency service', being an integral part of the emergency response provided by other blue light services.
“When you see photos of the incidents they have attended and the quick response they have provided, it is clear that we have a very dedicated and professional team who are able to step in when most needed no matter what the weather.
“I am happy that their hard work and skills under very challenging circumstances have been recognised and my sincere congratulations goes to everyone who has played a part, said Mr Gowans (pictured).
Key events the team have responded to include:
• Storm Babet
• Power outage, Raasay
• 999 outage, Laggan
• Landslip Elgol, Skye
• Rail incident, Invergordon
• Severe weather – rain and snow across the Highlands
• A9 south closure due to severe weather
• Storm Gerrit
• Amber Snow Warning across the Highlands
• Storm Isha
• Storm Jocelyn
• 999 outage, Skye
During incidents such as Storm Gerrit’s destruction (pictured) staff attend the emergency liaison group meetings to provide updates and support to partners. These meetings and other tactical meetings, often held out of hours, are to assist colleagues and help support the emergency response.
The team’s nomination came from the council’s head of roads, Tracey Urry. She said: “There have been numerous compliments received from partner agencies such as NHS Highland, Blue Light Services, staff, councillors, communities and members of the public who have appreciated the hard work and difficult conditions in which our road teams operate, to keep the roads open and safe.
“As well as responding to incidents on the ground, the team are able to provide current information including photos and video footage to our communications team to assist with informing and warning the public.”
Some of the staff involved were able to attended the prize giving ceremony held at Strathpeffer Pavillion to collect their Team of The Year Award presented to them by chief executive Derek Brown.
