Gritting crews in Barnsley on standby as temperatures set to plummet

Crews are prepared to cover the 321 miles of gritting routes and two domes are full to the brim with 12,000 tonnes of grit. About 4,000 tonnes were used last year.

Coun Chris Lamb, cabinet spokesperson for place, said: “We have a fantastic team in Barnsley who are well practised in keeping our roads clear. But there’s no secret in the fact that COVID-19 continues to present extra challenges to virtually all council services, so extra planning has been required this year to make sure our crews can work safely.

“Many of our gritting crews are the same people who helped maintain waste collections and other council services earlier this year, so they have already earned extra thanks and appreciation before the first flakes of snow appear.

“Working in a socially distanced and COVID-secure way is more difficult and takes extra planning, thought and effort, but I know our crews will rise to the challenge and keep themselves safe so they can keep us all safe on the roads this winter.

“Please remember that grit bins are provided at many locations to help keep the road clear. This isn’t for use on private property or footways.

“Please take care when travelling in colder weather, check that your vehicle is winter ready and leave plenty of time for your journey in adverse weather.”

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