Where we grit
Gritting maps:
We prioritise key routes and footpaths across the borough, main roads, bus routes and areas around schools, hospitals and emergency services. We cannot grit or clear all roads or footpaths, so please take extra care when moving around the borough in icy conditions.
If there is a grit supply shortage nationwide then the government can prioritise and restrict where grit can be used. If the government imposes restrictions in London, then we may have to limit gritting to the routes shown on the Camden network resilience map (PDF).
Grit bins
Search for your nearest grit bin
There are over 170 grit bins in Camden, which residents are welcome to use to grit public roads and footpaths. Please don’t use this grit on private paths or drives.
Call or email Veolia to report an empty grit bin
Community snow clearing – request a snow shovel and grit salt
Every winter, we grit key roads and footpaths in Camden. If you’re able to, you can also help keep your local pavements clear from snow and ice for your community.
With our partner Veolia we can provide Camden residents and community groups snow shovels and bags of grit salt for this.
You can collect this equipment from or our Holmes Road depot (by appointment) or we can deliver.
Request a snow shovel and grit salt from Veolia
Deliveries may be delayed during snowfall – refill your grit bag at your nearest grit bin.
A limited number of shovels and grit bags are also available from Swiss Cottage Library for collection:
- 11am to 7pm, Monday to Thursday
- 11am to 4pm, Friday and Saturday
Equipment will be given out on first come first serve basis while available.
Please don’t use this grit on private paths or drives. Any equipment or materials supplied are used at your own risk.
Clearing pavements and public spaces
Clearing snow and ice from the pavement outside your home or from public spaces can help prevent slips and falls. You can find the full advice on how to do this clearly and effectively on the Met Office’s website: Clearing your path or driveway - the snow code - Met Office
- clear the snow and ice early in the day: If possible start removing the snow and ice in the morning when it’s fresh, loose and easier to move. If you remove the top layer of snow in the morning, any sun in the day will help melt any ice beneath. You can then cover the path with salt before nightfall to stop it refreezing overnight.
- clear and prevent slips: Use salt or sand, not hot water. If you use water to melt the snow, it may refreeze and turn to black ice. You can melt snow or prevent black ice by spreading grit or salt on the area you have cleared.
- take care where you move the snow: If you’re shovelling snow, take care where you put it so it doesn’t block people’s paths or drains.
- make a path: Make sure you make a path down the middle of the area to be cleared first so you have a clear surface to walk on, then shovel the snow from the centre of the path to the sides.
Please do not spread grit near to trees as it is bad for them.
If you’re able to and you have neighbours who might struggle to get in and out of their home, you could offer to clear snow and ice around their property as well.
Housing estates
Caretakers have snow shovels and a supply of grit on housing estates and will prioritise spots, including main entrances, sheltered housing areas, ramps, hills, or where vulnerable and elderly residents live.
In bad weather, our Veolia staff will be taken off sweeping and help caretakers with gritting and snow clearing.
Vulnerable residents
Caretakers will check on registered vulnerable tenants on housing estates. If you are worried about a resident who may be vulnerable, you can contact your Housing Officers or Ward Housing Managers by calling 020 7974 4444.
School and council building closures
Camden residents
In the event of severe weather, please contact your school to find out if they are open.
Any significant disruptions or updates that impact Camden residents and staff will be published on our news page.
Camden staff
Staff can also contact the staff emergency information line. This number is on the back of your identity card. You may also check the essentials intranet.