Gritting teams continue hard work on Barnsley’s roads and footpaths

THE council has hit back at what some people see as little or no gritting of roads across the Barnsley borough, despite the efforts of gritting teams.

Since the wintery weather arrived in the region last Thursday there has been intense activity at Barnsley Council to get grit down on the borough’s key roads. So far, more than 1,600 tonnes of grit has been spread on the roads and 250 tonnes on footpaths. This amounts to 24 separate gritting operations – and there is plenty left!

On each gritting operation the A-road network is dealt with first; then, if prevailing weather conditions worsen, key secondary routes. As resources are freed up, gritting teams can deal with specific requests. However, gritting is not the solution to all bad weather conditions. It takes some time to activate once laid and can be less effective in extreme cold.

The council also provides more than 490 grit bins – the highest per head of population in South Yorkshire. These are provided for community use on local roads and footpaths provided typically in areas where there are vulnerable groups or there are steep inclines.

So far, grit bins have been refilled twice, which is unusual so early in winter. The council has reports that some residents have been taking grit for personal use rather than for the benefit of vulnerable communities. All residents are urged to stop doing this and use grit responsibly. Footway gritting continues and if needed will continue over Christmas and New Year.

Weather forecasts for Christmas and New Year are a mix of continuing cold temperatures and snow flurries from time to time. Gritting operations will be adapted to these conditions as resources permit. Highways teams will be at work at night and in the early morning on the primary road network. If conditions worsen they will grit key secondary routes again. Throughout the period teams will deal with requests as they become available from gritting operations.

Darren Richardson, Assistant Director for Highways, Engineering and Waste, urged motorists to be patient and to consider the need to travel.

He said: “If your journey is absolutely necessary please be prepared. If you have to travel adjust your driving style to suit the conditions. Slow down. Keep your distance between you and the vehicle in front and follow personal safety information from the council and emergency services. We are doing everything we can to deal with the situation, but urge people to play their part.”

To let the council know about any ice or snow problems phone on (01226) 773555. Your call will be logged and dealt with as soon as resources are available.

ENDS