Worthing Borough Council

Severe Weather

Page Rating

1 2 3 4 5

Emergency Planning Officer - 01903 221025
Office Hours - 01903 239999
Out of Hours Emergencies - 01903 821992

epo@adur-worthing.gov.uk

Snow and ice

In the event of severe cold weather affecting our area again this year, the Council has, the same as last year, made arrangements with West Sussex County Highways to assist in the clearing snow from pavements, town centre areas and other high risk areas. Arrangements are already in place for the distribution, if required, of hippo bags of salt to areas already identified from the severe weather last year.

The responsibility for maintaining the footpaths and pedestrian areas is with West Sussex County Highways, but in severe weather conditions their primary concern is the clearing of the major road networks. It is for this reason that District, Borough and Parish Councils have agreed to assist in clearing town centre footpaths, car parks and other essential areas.

Communities can, as part of the Government’s Big Society in action, assist in making sure that any elderly or vulnerable people in their area are visited regularly to ensure that they have no problems. The Government has issued a short guidance document on “Community Action during severe weather” which details how communities and volunteers can get involved.

•   Guidance on community action during severe weather (110 KB)

Last year there were some questions about liability should you decide to clear snow from the pavement outside your property. The Government have also issued guidance on this subject:

•   Clearing snow and ice from pavements and public spaces (55 KB)
• Direct.gov.uk - Clearing snow and ice from pavements yourself

Who should you contact?

If you have an emergency then you should always contact the emergency services using the 999 system.

Any non emergency calls relating to the provision of salt for your area should be directed initially to West Sussex County Highways on 01243 642 105. They will take the details and, if appropriate, pass the call onto the Council involved.

The Council’s Emergency Planning Officer will be able to provide additional advice if needed and can be contacted as shown on the Emergency Contact Numbers page.

Back to Navigation - Back to the top of this article