A CARLISLE campaigner is calling on local authorities to do more gritting after recent black ice made roads and pathways treacherous.

Independent county councillor Robert Betton, who represents Botcherby, has sent an email to the city and county councils after he saw a taxi turn "360 degrees" on ice near to Durranhill Road, Sunday night.

He also said that conditions were bad on bus routes, pavements and in the city's Melbourne, and Keenan, parks.

Cllr Betton said: "I have put my concerns to them in terms of it affecting pavements and the city's greenspace.

"The council's have a duty of care so I have asked what policy they use and what if they coordinate using a seven day weather forecast to combat these problems, so services won't be disrupted.

"Bus routes don't seem to have been gritted and things were certainly bad in Melbourne Park and Keenan Park.

"It is about safety, in the urban and rural areas, not just in the area where I live."

In response councillor Keith Little, county council cabinet member for Highways & Transport said: “The drop in temperatures and difficult road conditions presents motorists with a number of issues that make drivers, cyclists and pedestrians more vulnerable.

"The council urges road users to plan ahead of their journey for delays and poor weather conditions, and supports the advice offered by motoring authorities such as the Institute of Advanced Motorists, RAC and Department for Transport.

"It is vital to ensure your vehicle is prepared for the winter and to be aware of slippery road surfaces as well as taking a supply of warm clothes and food on all journeys.”

Carlisle City Council spokesperson said: “We do all we can to make our green spaces safe places to visit and our staff grit areas which are accessed by steps or steep slopes.

"In icy conditions we advise visitors to our sites to take caution and where possible walk on grassland or similar surfaces.”

For advice on Winter travel go to : www.cumbria.gov.uk/winterready