We routinely spread salt on defined routes on forecasts of ice or snow. Pavements only get very limited attention because clearing them is very labour-intensive, although major shopping areas are likely to be treated in the early stages of snowfall.
Many local communities want to help themselves in such circumstances and we are happy to assist.
Salt bins
Requesting a bin for next year
Any requested for new salt bins received after the end of November will not be processed until the spring in readiness for the following winter
Should you require a salt bin for your area, these are available for purchase through your town or parish council. Please contact them in the first instance.
Further information is available by contacting either the Adverse Weather Manager or the Area Steward by emailing highwayenquiries@oxfordshire.gov.uk or calling 0845 310 1111.
Each bin costs £250 + VAT and covers supply, installation and first fill.
We will keep a 'wish' list in readiness for placing the bins in the autumn (if you have requested and paid for a bin, your parish council will be contacted to agree the position on site).
Please remember the salt in the bins is intended for use on the public highway only, and that bins have be sited in their location for a specific reason. It could be a criminal offence for it to be used for other than its intended use.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, we (Oxfordshire County Council) will fill ALL salt/grit bins once.
No, we will only fill the bins once at the beginning of the winter season.
Any bins identified as not being fit for purpose during their initial fill will be replaced at our expense.
We will identify local suppliers and pass on the information to parish councils. There are local suppliers including builders merchants and DIY stores, and many more suppliers available online.
Yes, they are available at a cost of £250 + VAT and will be filled once (see above for details). Parish councils also have the option to 'shop around' for the bins: as long as we approve the location and the parish council confirms that salt will be for use on the public highway then we will also fill these bins once.
Generally all new salt bins will be green in colour, unless they are in a rural area, where yellow may be used to make them more visible
The bins we supply will not have locks on them: the salt is meant for public use to be spread on the highway, so locking them would defeat the object.
Salt heaps
We no longer place heaps of loose salt on the roadside because salt is very damaging to grass, hedgerows, trees and water courses. They also tempt children to kick salt around or attract dog fouling and become a blot on the landscape.
All salt needs to be placed in appropriate storage containers.
Click here to use Read Aloud by Insipio. Page reloads with controls for text to speech.
Click to go to the Easy read section. Note: this section doesn't have this menu. Use the back button or click the Oxfordshire County Council logo link in the header to return.
Print
Feedback
