Less than four weeks left to join Blackburn’s Grit Squad

Residents in Blackburn with Darwen have less than four weeks left to apply for a place on the borough’s Grit Squad scheme, which helps communities cope when frost, snow and ice hit.

The council says last January’s heavy snow and icy conditions showed how quickly winter weather can affect everyday life, making it harder for people to walk, drive and get where they need to be.

Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council says it grits around 160 miles of the borough’s 340-mile road network and provides almost 450 grit bins across the area. But it says it is not possible to treat every road and footway, or put a grit bin in every location.

That is where local Grit Squads come in. The community-led scheme is designed to help keep public spaces safer during severe winter weather.

When frost, snow or cold snaps are forecast, volunteers can grit problem areas such as footpaths, pavements and local streets, clear snow from shared public spaces, and check on vulnerable residents who may need extra help.

Volunteers are given equipment including bags of salt, snow shovels, buckets, gloves and high-visibility vests.

Councillor Quesir Mahmood, Executive Member for Growth and Development, said: “Last January showed us all just how much of an impact snow and ice can have on our communities.

“The council has robust arrangements in place to treat priority routes during winter weather, but we can’t be everywhere at once.

“Our Grit Squads are an incredibly valuable part of helping communities prepare for these conditions, particularly in areas where a permanent grit bin isn’t available.

“It’s about neighbours helping neighbours. By giving a little of their time to spread grit, clear snow and check on people who may need extra support, volunteers can make a real difference to the safety and wellbeing of their community.

“We provide the equipment, so if you think your area could benefit from a Grit Squad, I’d encourage you to find out more and apply.”

Applications have been open since 1 May and close on Wednesday 14 October.

People who have previously been part of a Grit Squad and want to continue this winter are also being asked to reapply.

New applications will be assessed on local need, including whether an area has a gradient, provides access to local schools, medical or community facilities, forms part of the adopted highway, or has a high population of elderly or vulnerable residents.

Volunteers should not spread grit or clear snow on private land, including car parks, driveways or garden paths.

More information, including tips on how to spread grit effectively, is available on the council’s website.