MP calls for inquiry Into snow chaos

12.00.00am GMT Wed 23rd Dec 2009

Colchester MP Bob Russell has called on the Local Government Minister to hold an Inquiry into the chaos which has been caused by this week's snow - particularly so far as it relates to the salting of roads and pavements.

And Mr Russell has also called for clarification over the legal status for residents and business people who clear the pavement outside their premises.

He explained: "Where once it was rare to see a pavement left unswept of snow, which if left can quickly turn to dangerous ice, nowadays very few pavements are swept by residents and businesses because of the belief which has developed in recent years that by sweeping the pavement the person doing so makes themselves liable to legal action should anyone then fall over on the cleared pavement. I think we need clarification."

In his letter to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, the Rt Hon John Denham MP, Mr Russell said: "There has been considerable criticism throughout the country about the lack of gritting and snow clearance by the local authorities responsible.

"In Colchester there has been, at best, minimal gritting on main roads only." Other than the Town Centre, "the pavements have been particularly treacherous."

Mr Russell said that he made no criticism of those who had been out in all hours doing gritting, but rather with Essex County Council who are responsible for highways. "Many people think, wrongly, that Colchester Borough Council is at fault. They are not. All criticisms should be directed at Essex County Council."