To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she will review her Department’s policy on the provision of grit boxes in residential areas, in light of reports from residents of these boxes being removed or not provided where they are required.

Salt bins are provided for use by the public, on a self-help basis on public roads which do not qualify for inclusion on the gritting schedule, providing the necessary criteria are met.

Residents and proprietors can make an application to the Department to request the installation of a salt bin in their area however, provision of new salt boxes is not automatic and may be refused if the location in question is not on the publicly maintained road network; the gradient of the road in question is less than 5%; or if reasonable alternative routes are available.

When considering requests for the provision of a salt bin, my officials carry out an evaluation using a criteria based system, which takes into account various factors including topography, traffic volume, road gradient/geometry, alternative routes as well as other factors such as residential usage and community facilities including schools, hospitals and care homes for the elderly.

Equally, residents and proprietors can request the removal of a salt bin, and in some instances, a bin may be removed from a location due to lack of use. In which case, the bin is re-located.

The current criteria for the provision of salt bins is considered appropriate, and therefore there are no plans to review it at this time.