Derry MLA calls for 'common sense' approach to installing and refilling grit boxes

Mr Durkan urged the Minister for Infrastructure, Liz Kimmins to review the Department’s current criteria for salt bin provision and refilling, which he deemed ‘unnecessarily restrictive’, after issues arose during the recent cold snap in Derry.

The MLA for Foyle said: “It has come to my attention that DfI are only replenishing grit bins that have been individually reported as empty. That approach simply does not make sense. For example, in notoriously steep estates like Cornshell Fields, workers are being sent out to refill a single reported bin even though several others in the same area may also be empty. Crews are then instructed to move on to another estate and repeat the process.

“This is completely inefficient and wastes the valuable time of hard working DfI Roads staff.

“Ahead of the recent wintry conditions, I contacted the Minister seeking assurances that there would be adequate gritting provision and salt boxes in place across the Foyle constituency. I was told that all requests which had passed assessment had been fulfilled. However, that does not reflect the reality on the ground. I am aware of areas that meet the criteria but are still waiting on boxes being installed."

Improving grit box provision would, Mr Durkan said, not only make communities safer but would also ease pressure on frontline staff.

"Ensuring grit boxes are properly installed and routinely checked would significantly improve safety for residents and reduce the number of call-outs and requests faced by DfI Roads staff, who have been working tirelessly and in extremely challenging conditions to keep roads passable.

“This is in no way a criticism of workers who are operating within a restrictive framework,” he said, adding: “I will continue to press the Minister for a full review of grit box criteria and a more sensible, proactive approach to refilling bins, one that prioritises safety and common sense.”

A DfI spokesperson said: “The Department has offered a full winter service in recent days and over the Christmas period with staff out gritting the roads on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day, including the Derry areas, and has sufficient stock to maintain a full gritting service. “All grit boxes and grit piles were replenished prior to the start of the winter season however as this is a prolonged period of cold weather, salt bins and grit piles can be consumed within a few hours. Given the pressure on staff who work throughout the night and day to grit, it can then take some time to replenish all boxes and piles at a time when priority must be given to treating the main road network. “The Department has around 5,850 salt bins and 52,300 grit piles available for use by the public on a self-help basis on selected routes not included on the salting schedule. We also make a limited quantity of grit available for collection outside some depots.

“Grit supplies are available for Derry City and Strabane District Council and salt bins and grit piles will be replenished as soon as possible.”