LACK of winter gritting on some roads and pavements has left parents and children dangerously slip-sliding to school on icy mornings, say Liberal Democrat campaigners in the north of Andover.

County councillor for the area Robin Hughes says there are two main areas of worry – at Smannell where the C99 route is now unsalted and the bridge that spans the Newbury Road linking Roman Way to King Arthur’s way – but other village schools may also have been affected.

It is estimated that almost 100 children are driven to school using the C99 every day.

“In the previous contract with Balfour Beatty the C99 through Smannell was salted as part of an extra route spread throughout Test Valley that included a number of rural schools,” said Mr Hughes.

“With the new contract with Amey this route was not included.

“However, I am told that with the recent cold spell, certain elements of the route were reintroduced, but this did not include the C99.

“I hope this is simply an oversight and not part of some cost-saving exercise.

“I have also asked for the over road bridges on King Arthur’s Way and the bridge that spans the Newbury Road to be treated.

“As the main access to and from the Knights Enham schools is via these bridges, schoolchildren, their parents and staff have little choice but to use them.

“Parents have said the bridges are treacherous and with the rest of January and February to come things will only get worse.”

Mr Hughes has been informed by officials that a review of routes is being undertaken and that the county council has the facility to ‘spot’ salt should the right conditions apply.

On 12 December and 5 January he raised the issue of the treacherously icy bridges with Hampshire County Council. Test Valley Borough Council, has confirmed it is a matter for the county council.

A response from Hampshire County Council is still awaited.