6 February 2012

Please note: this news article is in our archive. Articles were correct at time of publication, but should not be relied on for accuracy after the passage of time.

TOWN COUNCIL STAFF turned out on Sunday to clear the freshly fallen snow from paths and pavements around East Grinstead town centre.

West Sussex County Council had gritted roads and the snow plough was deployed to clear the High Street, London Road and the priority routes to keep the town open for traffic.

Pavements are not included in the WSCC clearing programme but East Grinstead Town Council bought a manual snow clearer and gritter in 2010 to use during bad weather to keep the town centre open and easier for pedestrians to navigate.

Volunteers from the Outdoor Services team turned out on Sunday to ensure that Monday would be better for shoppers and businesses, and worked all morning to clear and grit the pavements.

Council Leader Norman Webster said: “The Town Council believes this task is important to the town and we are grateful that residents have contacted us to say thank you. The Town Council is not required to clear pavements and the staff are not obliged to work on a Sunday, but getting fresh snow moved before it becomes impacted makes it easier for everyone. We do as much as we can and residents who have cleared snow from their drives, footpaths and residential roads have all helped to make sure the town stays mobile. It has been a great community effort.”

Weather reports show that the temperatures may stay cold this week slowing snow clearance but hopefully there are no more fresh falls on the way for the time being.