THE Arctic weather may have moved on for now – but the slippery issue of how to handle ice and snow continues with a call for more do-it-yourself grit bins.

The wintry blast before Christmas saw routes across the conurbation turn into ice rinks.

But Borough of Poole came in for particular criticism when it cancelled four days of refuse collections on the grounds that roads and pavements were too hazardous. Neighbouring local authorities began collecting again after just two days.

Many angry residents pointed out that while the roads were deemed too dangerous for bin collections – they were forced to navigate them on foot and in their cars, or were stuck at home.

Responding to their frustration Liberal Democrat ward councillor for Branksome West, Phil Eades, is calling for the council to provide more grit bins to allow them to clear routes themselves.

He told the Echo: “Most Poole residents are happy to clear their own pavements and roads – the council should thank them for this and must do all it can to assist them and keep residents and the local economy moving.”

John Sayers, principal engineer, Borough of Poole, said the council currently had around 50 grit bins, primarily in areas with steep hills or busy junctions and provided more than 70 bags of extra grit during the recent wintry spell ‘in areas experiencing particular problems where resources allowed.’ He thanked all residents who helped clear snow and ice, adding: “This public spirited help is encouraged, especially in residential areas while the council primarily focuses its limited resources on major routes. However, we would like to emphasise that any grit provided by the council is for use on the public highway only and not on private paths or drives.”

Councillor Eades is putting a motion to the next full council calling for an audit of grit bins, increasing their number, especially around steep hills, and keeping them well-stocked through winter.