Gritting teams work round the clock to keep Lancashire's roads moving

Gritting crews working around the clock as snow and ice affect Lancashire

Gritting crews are continuing their work to keep Lancashire’s roads safe and open as a Met Office yellow weather warning for snow and ice remains in place.

Large parts of the county have experienced snow showers, with further wintry conditions expected throughout the rest of the week, alongside longer spells of rain or snow.

Round-the-clock winter operations

Gritting teams have been out every day so far in 2026. With all priority routes already treated, crews are now gritting secondary routes where conditions allow.

Lancashire County Council has up to 150 drivers on standby 24/7 throughout the winter to respond to changing weather conditions.

Keeping priority routes moving

The council is responsible for maintaining 4,300 miles of road, with approximately 1,800 miles forming the priority network.

Priority routes include:

• Non-trunk motorways and A roads
• B roads providing access in and out of towns
• Routes to hospitals, emergency service stations and main employment centres
• Key public transport routes and single access roads into villages

Secondary routes are treated during prolonged periods of ice and snow, during daylight hours, and only after priority roads have been cleared.

Service disruptions

A small number of schools are reported as closed today due to the weather. The household waste recycling centre in Barnoldswick is also closed and is unlikely to open today.

How residents can help

Grit bins and salt piles are available across the county for residents to use on nearby roads and pavements. A cupful of grit is enough to cover around one square metre and deal with most hazards.

Advice for travellers

Councillor Warren Goldsworthy, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said:

^{“Our teams have been working flat out to keep Lancashire’s roads safe and open. However, travel may still be difficult as snow and ice affect large parts of the county.}

^{“We’re doing everything we can to get people where they need to be, but our focus has to be on keeping main routes open and moving. Please only travel if you absolutely have to, and take extra care over the next few days.”}

Residents are also encouraged to check in on family, friends and neighbours who may be more vulnerable during the cold weather.

Warm spaces available

If it is safe to do so, residents can visit their local library, which forms part of a countywide network of warm, safe and welcoming spaces. Free hot drinks are available to support residents during the winter months.