Grit Bins and heaps
What can people do for themselves?
We provide more than 300 grit bins in more urban areas and thousands of salt heaps throughout the area on routes that aren’t routinely treated – particularly in rural areas. This allows people to spread salt themselves on local pavements and roads.
All heaps and bins are replenished before the winter season. They will be restocked as resources are available. However, in times of persisting hazards resources will be stretched and it may not be possible to replenish all bins on request.
Can I order a grit bin if there is not one nearby?
We only provides grit bins for roads we maintains. If it is a private road you are concerned about you would need to speak to the person responsible. Grit Bins and Salt can be purchased from various sources such as Builders Merchants for private use.
Can I remove ice from the road outside my house/business?
Being a good neighbour and clearing paths of ice and snow is the kind of practical step that most of us can take during cold weather. In fact, a helping hand with this can make all the difference for people may be unable to clear their own paths, or who need to use local paths to access services.
It's much easier to clear fresh snow, so make a start before people squash it down if you can.
I am worried in case someone is injured on a road or footway that I have cleared of snow or gritted. Can I be sued because of this?
Advice from the Scottish Government is: provided you are careful, use common sense and don't do anything which would be likely to cause harm or distress to others, it is highly unlikely that you will be found responsible for any accidents.
In fact, users of areas affected by snow and ice have responsibilities to be careful themselves.
