It may be mid-summer right now in Gnosall, but for the first time in 10 years, Staffordshire County Council is reviewing its winter gritting policy. The update changes how routes are chosen, focusing on community need and access to important places rather than simply the type of road.
What's changing?
Under the new approach, gritting routes will be prioritised based on how well they serve local communities, businesses and key destinations. This brings the council in line with updated government guidance issued since the last policy was set.
Importantly, no currently treated routes will be removed when the new policy takes effect for winter 2026/27, and a small number of routes will be kept as exceptions while further work continues. The council already treats more than 40% of its road network in winter, which is above the national average, and there are no plans to reduce that figure.
The update will also change how community grit bins, funded by local councils, are managed.
What happens next?
The draft policy was discussed at a scrutiny meeting on 21 July and goes to cabinet on 16 September. If approved, it will be in place before the winter season begins on 19 October.
Cabinet Member for Strategic Highways Peter Mason said: "Keeping Staffordshire moving safely during winter is vital for residents, businesses and communities. This updated policy gives us a clearer, more modern and evidence-led way of planning our winter service."
