Winter road maintenance: gritting and snow clearance
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From the end of October to the middle of April, we run our winter maintenance programme. We operate this service in accordance with the Barnet Winter Operational Plan:
This programme determines when and where our 11 gritters will be used to keep our roads clear and safe during difficult weather conditions in the winter months.
Gritting action update
We will be gritting the roads today (22 November)
Where we grit
We prioritise key road routes within the Barnet network for our gritting activities:
Our aim is to grit the Priority 1 routes before forecasted ice or frost occurs. Priority is given to clearing snow and ice from key strategic areas.
Once traffic on the priority network is flowing freely, all available resources are deployed to treat the Priority 2 roads across the borough.
We also grit our footways:
This list comprises the highest risk footways and includes the heavily used town centre footways and Transport Hubs.
While working within these priorities, every effort is made to respond to individual requests for assistance received from residents and commuters.
When we grit
The Winter Maintenance Team receive weather and temperature forecasts throughout the day and based on this information, they'll decide whether to send out gritters. During times of heavy snow, the team will be working 24 hours.
Snow clearance
You can spread grit outside your property and clear snow from the road or pavement. We've prepared some advice for residents on clearing snow and ice from footpaths.
You can check the weather forecast on the Met Office Website.
Follow us on X/Twitter for regular updates on when we are gritting in Barnet.
You can request snow clearance online:
Grit bins
Locations
We have placed grit bins at more than 480 known trouble spots and steep locations so highway users can assist themselves.
You can use grit from any of Barnet’s grit bins to grit public roads and footpaths.
Do not use grit bin material on private property.
Re-fills
Bins will only be replenished during October and November for the start of the season, during and immediately after periods of adverse weather, or upon request from the residents. Empty grit bins can be reported to us online:
Report an empty or damaged grit bin
We will refill these bins as and when resources allow, but we appreciate residents letting us know when they are empty or damaged.
The portal can also be used to report a damaged grit bin and to request a new one.
Who can have a grit bin
If you are a school or business you can request to purchase a grit bin. Email gritting@barnet.gov.uk to request to purchase a grit bin.
For grit bin costs, visit Highways fees and charges
Contact us
If the situation is an emergency and you need immediate care dial 999.
You can contact the highway correspondence team using the details below.
Highways, 7th Floor
2 Bristol Avenue
Colindale
NW9 4EW
Email gritting@barnet.gov.uk
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 9am to 5:15pm and Friday 9am to 5pm.