Bury: Concerns over grit bins not being refilled after accidents

A series of road accidents linked to the weather took place on Darlington Close in Elton on January 18 which caused heavy damage to at least one vehicle.

At a full council meeting that day, Elton Conservative representative Jack Rydeheard spoke about the dangers facing elderly residents in icy conditions. 

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He said: "Elton's residents have been ignored as these bins have been left empty."

Holding up photos of grit bins with litter in them, he added: "Given the state of some of the grit bins in my ward, it isn't ideal and they have been left like that for quite a while."

In response, cabinet member for the environment, climate change and operations at the council, Cllr Alan Quinn, said he was aware of the problem and had a team working flat out to solve it.

Councillor Alan Quinn (Image: Bury Council)

Cllr Quinn added that they had 324 grit bins in the borough, 70 of which had requests for refills.

He said: "The problem we have at the moment is that when we do fill them, they are emptied as quick as that, mostly by residents.

“I have a team working flat out doing that and if you let me know, they will get done.  

“The other problem we have is that the team can go out to grit them, but if we have rain it washes away and becomes icy so it is an ongoing problem but would we could do more if we had more money.”  

Councillor Jack Rydeheard speaking in Council (Image: Bury Council)

Following the meeting, Cllr Rydeheard said: “I’m glad that progress is finally being made.  

“Throughout the icy spell, the lack of grit in grit bins has left residents in Elton ignored and the vulnerable left at risk." 

The councillor also praised Andrew Luxton, a Conservative candidate for Elton at the local elections, for reporting grit bins when they are empty.

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Grit bins on Darlington Close and Sleaford Close have been refilled.  

The grit bin in Burrs Country Park, which was previously behind a locked gate has also been refilled and relocated to opposite the Chimney/Mousetrap car park. 

To report an empty grit bin click here.

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