NEWSROOM

In its budget for 2026/27 Telford & Wrekin Council has made provision to increase the number of grit bins to 1,000 in a move that will help treat the Borough’s roads and footpaths to keep them safe.

This investment will be complemented by rolling out the trial of sensors in some grit bins to help inform teams when bins need to be refilled.  The commitment will represent an investment of more than £200,000, covering the costs of the new bins, sensors and grit refills of bins across the Borough.

When extreme cold weather hits in the form of frost, snow and ice, the grit stored in grit bins in communities plays a key role in keeping the Borough's road moving safely.

And to support the move, the Council is also launching a recruitment drive to increase the number of snow wardens in the Borough which currently stands in excess of 650. The voluntary snow wardens lead efforts amongst communities to clear roads and pavements.

Councillor Richard Overton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Highways, Housing & Enforcement, said:

"In the recent snow and ice we've experienced already in 2026 we can see just how important grit bins are and we're pleased that we have recognised this in terms of our investment in next year's budget proposals.

"We’ll be increasing numbers of grit bins from the 700 we have now up to 1,000 as the bins are so important in allowing people in the community to grit those vital side roads and footpaths along with residential streets. This allows our gritting crews to concentrate on the main road routes to keep the Borough moving."

The Council's gritters follow a 250-mile route of the Borough's main road network on their rounds and keep grit bins re-stocked to allow residents to keep side roads as safe as possible. The use of the proposed new sensor technology will help Council teams become more efficient in refilling grit bins across the Borough.

Councillor Paul Davis, Cabinet Member for Communities & Civic Pride, said:

“Volunteers play a huge role in many walks of life across Telford and Wrekin and in times of extreme cold weather, it is always inspiring to see how our communities come together.

“When it comes to tackling snow and ice our Council work is critically supported by well over 650 voluntary snow wardens across the Borough who do a fantastic job in their community and we're pleased to be boosting the stock of grit bins to help residents even more in the future."

Emma Woodhouse, who has been a volunteer snow warden in Priorslee for the last three years said:

“As a snow warden, my role is about much more than clearing snow — it’s about looking out for our community when conditions are at their most challenging.

“Severe winter weather can quickly turn everyday routes into hazards. I volunteer to help make pavements and key access points safer by shovelling snow, gritting paths, and checking on areas where people are most at risk, such as slopes, steps, and well-used walkways. By taking practical action early, we can reduce the risk of slips and falls and help people continue with their daily routines safely.

“Being a snow warden is also about community spirit, it’s a proud feeling to ensure the community is safe and well. It brings neighbours together, encourages people to look out for one another, and creates reassurance during periods of bad weather. Even small actions — like clearing a short stretch of pavement or sharing information — can make a big difference.

“Special thanks to Telford & Wrekin Council for supporting us with the grit bags for wardens and refilling grit bins and thanks to everybody who helped out. I’d certainly encourage even more people to become snow wardens in the future.”

In addition to setting aside provisions to support gritting across the road network, Telford & Wrekin Council’s proposed Budget for 2026/27 commits £150 million to supporting vulnerable children, people with disabilities and older adults, equal to 70p in every £1 the Council spends to provide care and support for people who need it most.

At the same time as keeping Council Tax the lowest in the Midlands, the Budget will also deliver £437 million in capital investment into the priorities residents value most, including better homes and roads, expanding schools, enhancing bus services, and supporting our high streets.

Find out more about the 2026/27 Budget proposals, and share your views at www.telford.gov.uk/budget

Meanwhile to find out more about becoming a snow warden people should visit www.telford.gov.uk/snowwardens and to request a grit bin people should visit www.telford.gov.uk/roadworks-transport-and-streets/streets-and-roads/being-prepared-for-the-winter/grit-bins/