Council asks for help to clear snow this winter

Volunteers will be asked to help to clear paths, pavements, back streets and side roads which are not on Barnsley Council’s primary and secondary gritting routes and do not have grit bins.

Cllr Roy Miller, Cabinet spokesman for environment, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for more residents to get involved when the bad weather comes.

“At present there are many groups and individuals that support the local community doing snow clearing and I would like others to take advantage of this offer of support.

“Clearly there are budget pressures, so it will have to be on a first come first served basis as resources are not unlimited.”

A number of ‘good neighbours’ already assist people across Barnsley during snowy weather.

One team member is the coordinator and point of contact for the support Barnsley Council is able to offer, such as shovels, high visibility clothing and sand/grit use.

The council also offers simple training on safe snow clearing and provides advice on good practice via the community snow clearers code.

People thinking about volunteering are reassured that should a member of the public be injured on a path or pavement cleared by a good neighbour, they will not be held responsible.

For more information or to register an interest contact the council on 01226 773555.