Several residents and Covingham Parish have ask me the very topical question about the Salt/Grit bins that are dotted around Swindon, and why every street doesn't have one? This is a very topical question with the snowy weather, and I can imagine every resident would be willing to help their street grit their road if it was possible.

Phil, Glenn and I have asked Council Officers for details about this idea and we have been informed that the Council uses the following criteria in placing the Salt/Grit Bins.

The only Salt/Grit Bin in Covingham can be found in Covingham Square, next to the Postbox.

These bins are only removed if continously vandalised, no grit bin has been removed from Covingham in recent years.

Criteria for Placement

The placement of a new grit bin should only be considered if one or more of the following criteria are met: * On request only.

* Access available from carriageway for filling.

* Gradients in excess of 1:20 (Note – for guidance, crossfalls on roads and footways are generally 1:30).

* Proposed site is not on a gritting route A or B, when the grit is intended for use on the carriageway.

* Proposed site is on a junction with at least one road in excess of 1:20 gradient.

* Local residents are prepared to spread the salt * There are accident records or reports * The bin does not cause obstruction.

* No adjoining residents object.