Snow and ice clearance locations in the Blackhall and Hesleden area

As is to be expected during times of relatively heavy snowfall I've been inundated with calls over the past few days for roads and footpaths to be cleared. In response to every contact made I've issued requests for footpath clearances at key locations such as the Aged Miners' Homes, the Blackhall & Peterlee Health Centre on Hesleden Road, sheltered accommodation units, care homes and other residential areas in Blackhall Colliery, Blackhall Rocks and Hesleden. I've also asked for estate streets to be cleared as soon as possible.

Naturally there's considerable frustration that some areas have been cleared straight away while others haven't yet been reached. I understand those frustrations and I've relayed them to the relevant sections at the county council. However, when there's high demand for ice and snow clearances the council has a priority route for pre-salting and gritting roads and another for footpath clearances. I've posted links below to the council's policies for each:

Snow clearance - Durham County Council

Winter gritting routes - Durham County Council

Today's gritting plans - Durham County Council

I'd like to pass on my thanks to all of our residents who have contacted me with requests for road and footpath clearances. I know it's frustrating when there are delays due to high demand, but hopefully the services will get round soon to clearing all the locations I've reported in line with their policy and then follow up with the rest. In the meantime please let me know if you're having any problems with snow and ice and I'll continue to do everything I can to get things sorted as soon as possible: rob.crute@durham.gov.uk