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<p>We would advise all road users including cyclists to take extra care when cycling
in wet or icy conditions. In particular when it is icy, cyclists should to stick to
treated roads wherever possible.</p><p> </p><p>The responsibility for the treatment
and maintenance of the road network rests with the relevant highway authority. Section
41a of the Transport Act 1980 as amended, places highway authorities “under a duty
to ensure as far as is reasonably practicable, that safe passage along a highway is
not endangered by snow and ice”.</p><p><strong> </strong></p><p>In this respect, in
October last year I wrote to the leaders of all local highway authorities reminding
them of their responsibilities regarding preparation for winter and the need for robust
contingency plans in place to mitigate against any significant weather we may encounter
over the winter period.</p><p> </p><p>The Department for Transport (DfT) also continues
to play its part to ensure we stay through the 2015/16 winter season well prepared.
This includes continuing to maintain a substantial national emergency salt reserve,
first set up by the Coalition government, and having a robust distribution process
in place, if for any reason this salt of last resort is needed to be allocated.</p><p><strong>
</strong></p><p>The Department has also published a small amount of additional guidance
for highway authorities in Local Transport Note 1/12 “Shared Use Routes for Cyclists
and Pedestrians”.</p><p> </p>
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