During periods of ice and snow, responsibility for keeping
most roads and pavements in South Woodham Ferrers safe and passable lies
with Essex Highways / Essex County Council. They manage the main
gritting routes, winter service planning, and the maintenance of the highway
network.
Some areas of the town, including parts of the Asda complex and other privately‑owned land, are the responsibility of private landlords or management companies. Trinity Square is owned by Essex County Council and maintained by Chelmsford City Council. These organisations are expected to manage their own winter maintenance.
The Town Council in the last couple of years has voluntarily played a supporting role to get gritting completed in areas that are not our responsibility, purely to help our residents. We may grit certain paths or public areas when staff and resources allow, but we are a small organisation with limited capacity. Our team cannot guarantee that we will be able to treat every location, especially during prolonged or severe weather. This is not a case of avoiding responsibility—simply a recognition that we must work within the resources we have.
We are responsible for gritting and maintaining the areas of land and buildings that the Town Council owns and manages, and we will continue to prioritise these locations to ensure they remain safe for public access.
How You Can Help
There is no law preventing residents from clearing snow or ice from pavements outside their homes or businesses. Despite occasional press reports, you cannot be held liable for trying to help, provided you act sensibly and do not make conditions worse. Using salt or grit, clearing snow early in the day, and avoiding creating slippery piles of compacted snow are all simple, effective steps.
If you are vulnerable, have mobility issues, or are unsteady on your feet, please take extra care. Consider planning ahead, stocking up on essentials, arranging support from neighbours, or avoiding unnecessary trips during the coldest periods.
Winter weather can be challenging, but by working together as a community, we can help keep South Woodham Ferrers safe.