Paths and Grit Bins

When snow and ice are predicted the following are salted as a precaution -

• footways
• pedestrian areas
• cycle routes

When adverse weather hits, the council will prioritise clearing snow from main walking routes, such as the city centre.

If conditions continue, the council will look at removing snow from bus stops, before concentrating on areas where vulnerable people live.

The treatment of cycle routes is limited, but the council is working to identify priority routes and is investing in new equipment and resources to make this possible.

There is no law stopping people from clearing snow and ice on the pavement outside their home or from public spaces.

It is unlikely that a person will be sued or held legally responsible for any injuries on the path if they have cleared it carefully.

GOV.UK has more advice on clearing snow and ice yourself.

The council has around 400 grit bins located across the city that can bed accessed to help grit paths during wintry weather conditions.

You can find out where these bins are located by accessing the following document.

Request a service for a grit bin

You may request a new grit bin. This will be considered by the streetcare team. Approval is dependent on several criteria, including -

• land ownership
• access for delivery
• suitability

Grit bins can be provided at suitable locations for public use. Complete the form below to request one of the following services for a grit bin -

• empty
• new
• refill
• replace
• remove

Request a grit bin (opens in new window)

What happens next

Requests for new grit bins will be investigated within 14 working days.