A COUNCILLOR campaigning for improved winter gritting priorities for Upper Dales roads has renewed his appeal amid concerns over healthcare provision.

Cllr John Blackie has asked North Yorkshire County Council Highways to re-think the strategy of gritting in the Upper Dales to upgrade the notorious Buttertubs Pass to a priority one – meaning it would be more likely to be clear in harsh weather conditions.

He said he believes, along with Muker Parish Council, deeply rural Swaledale communities should feel safe in the knowledge the route over the pass to Hawes is clear.

In light of a consultation into A&E and maternity services at Darlington Memorial Hospital due to open in November, with the hospital being at risk of losing its consultant-led services, Cllr Blackie said it is more important than ever that rural communities can get out of the Dale.

He said: “A deep concern is the potential loss of critical care services like 24/7 A&E and consultant-led maternity at the Darlington Memorial Hospital.

“This would mean for residents in Upper Swaledale the nearest hospital to provide these services would be at Lancaster, some 45 miles from Muker, and a deal closer than either the James Cook University Hospital or the North Durham University Hospital, both 60 miles away.

North Yorkshire County Council environmental services and Highways are due to meet in early September to discuss any changes to the gritting programme.

The Richmondshire Area Committee in June voted to support Cllr Blackie’s recommendation of making the Buttertubs Pass a priority one route for the gritters.

At the meeting, former Richmondshire Highways manager Nigel Smith said the decision would come down to cost.