Which roads will be salted?

We will routinely salt the main roads if it is likely that ice will form on them. For other roads and information on what we do and how we do it, see our Winter Service Plan.

How do you decide when to salt the roads?

We base our decisions on information received from our weather forecasting service and from data collected by our own weather monitoring stations. Our contractors are on standby from November to March.

How do I find out which roads are closed due to heavy snow fall?

See our Borough Alert emergency section which will be updated to show any roads closed because of heavy snow fall. 

Are all salt bins provided by the Council?

No.  We have limited resources.  Some salt bins are purchased from the Council and are then looked after by others (e.g. Parish Councils, Residents' associations, schools, etc).  These salt bins will often be green in colour rather than the usual yellow.

How do I request a salt bin is re-filled?

Salt bins will be refilled monthly, unless the Council have been advised of the possibility of snowfall.  We welcome reports of empty salt bins so that should snow be forecast we can pay a special visit (as resources allow).  To report an empty Council-provided salt bin please phone 0118 974 6000 between 8am and 6pm Monday to Friday. 

Can I use the salt on my driveway?

No.  The salt is provided for use on the highway only.  We have had instances where the salt bins have been emptied within a short period of refilling despite relatively mild conditions.  As we know from last year there is a limited supply of salt and it is costly to provide and replace.  Any evidence of abuse of this facility could result in a salt bin being removed.

Can I clear my own footway or road of snow?

The Government have issued guidance to residents on clearing snow from roads and footways outside their property.  We are aware that some residents showed great community spirit following the heavy snows last winter by banding together to clear snow from roads, footways and school car parks.

Updates

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