Staffordshire County Council is updating its gritting and winter maintenance routes—the first in depth review of the existing policy in 10 years.
A new policy would see routes prioritised based on how they support communities, the economy and provide access to key places, rather than what class of road they are.
This brings it in line with changes in government guidance that have taken effect since the last publication.
No treated routes will be removed for winter 2026/27, with a small number kept as exceptions while further work is carried out.
The county council currently treats more than 40% of its road network in winter, which is above the national average. There are no plans to reduce the amount of network treated.
The new policy will also update arrangements for additional community grit bins funded by local councils.
The draft policy was discussed at scrutiny today (21 July) and will go before the authority’s cabinet on 16 September. If approved, it will be in place before the winter season starts on 19 October.
Peter Mason, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Strategic Highways, said:
“Keeping Staffordshire moving safely during winter is vital for residents, businesses and communities.
“This updated policy gives us a clearer, more modern and evidence-led way of planning our winter service. Our network has expanded and the usage levels have changed significantly in a number of areas over the last 10 years. This update reflects these changes and provides for a more up to date approach to better align with these changes across the network.
“I want to reassure residents that treated routes will not be removed for the coming winter, and we will continue to support road users when conditions are challenging.”
