Road Grit Theft Warning

The type of grit bins being raided by members of the public

By Ben Aulakh

“If you are caught stealing road grit for use on private property you may be prosecuted,” that’s the message being sent out from Highways Staff in Gloucestershire.

Reports have been coming in to the council of people taking grit from public grit bins to use on their own driveways.

Grit bins are provided in strategic locations on non-treated roads, so residents and businesses can grit roads or pavements themselves if required.

Cllr Stan Waddington, Cabinet Member for Environment said, “I was disappointed to hear that a few selfish individuals are taking grit that is provided to keep road users and pedestrians safe.

“While we have enough grit in Gloucestershire, the salt and resources we have has to be focused on keeping roads open.”

The council are asking home and business owners to help themselves by clearing the footpath in front of their property of any ice and snow.

The council is also keen to emphasise that publicly provided grit bins must only be used to clear public pavements and roads only.

Cllr Waddington “Some bins already need refilling when they've only just been done and we need to use it sensibly and fairly.

“I would appeal to everyone to use the grit sparingly and only on roads and pavements.”

Anyone who spots someone taking grit for their own private use, please call the police on 0845 090 1234.

Photograph from Adfern