The county council’s winter maintenance service continues to grit 43% of the road network to prevent the formation of ice and the settling of light snow. Gritters are deployed based on information from detailed weather forecasts. The county council will continue to stock grit bins for local people to use.
Council gritting routes

What is the task that local councils could carry out?

The county council will continue to stock grit bins for local people to use, but local councils can also request materials as part of the ‘Ice Busters’ scheme,  so that their volunteers can treat locally important footways and pedestrian routes when ice and snow are predicted.

Through this scheme, you can be in charge of where and when to treat important footways and paths in your area.

Don’t be put off clearing paths of snow and ice because you are afraid someone will get injured. Follow the advice provided to make sure you clear footways and pedestrian areas safely and effectively.

How could local councils go about it?

The county council can help local councils to develop an action plan that includes:

• The footways that are to be treated, and under what conditions they will be treated
• What specific treatment will be used to clear snow and ice
• How the grit will be applied and stored

You can then use this method statement – ‘How to go about gritting footpaths in winter’

What are some of the things local councils should consider when considering or carrying out this task?

Just consider the most well used paths and those that may be on a gradient.

What’s the first step?

The first step  is to speak with your Community Highways Liaison Officer to develop an action plan.

You can then use this method statement – ‘How to go about gritting footpaths in winter’  Remember to carry out a risk assessment  – Example Risk Assessment for Activities Within the Highway

Who should I contact to get the ball rolling?

Contact your Community Highways Liaison Officer in the first instance .

Quick tasks