Winter roads

We are responsible for gritting roads when to make sure all main routes on the network are safe and clear of snow and ice.

We will also clear any snowfall and help keep local roads safe and clear for drivers.

When we grit

Gritting is carried out when road temperatures drop below zero and when the roads are expected to be damp. Gritting is done either after the evening or before the morning peak traffic periods.

But, during adverse weather conditions, we may have to grit at other times, even 24 hours around the clock if we have snow.

Follow @grittertweets on Twitter for regular updates.

What roads we cover

Primary salting routes map (PDF)
Secondary salting routes map (PDF)
Footpaths salting route around urban Bedford map (PDF)

A gritting network of roads has been created so that roads with a lot of traffic and which have the highest risk of accidents are treated.

All A and B roads are salted along with other important local roads.

In prolonged snow and ice, more roads may be treated, but only when the normal salting network shown on the map is clear of ice and snow.

Additional roads that we will plough when we have heavy and prolonged snow fall (PDF)

Knowing when to grit

We use a computer system that collects weather and road information at different sites across the Borough. It also tells us if any grit is left on the road from previous salting.