Hertfordshire County Council has U-turned on its decision not to provide free gritting salt going to schools across the county.

Previously only schools more than 100 metres from a designated gritting route could apply for free salt from the council.

However the council has now expanded its policy on winter self-help to offer salt to all schools that are not located on salting routes, regardless of distance from a gritted road.

Councillor Terry Douris, cabinet member for highways, said: “I undertook at the request of members at the recent Highways Cabinet Panel to review with officers this aspect of the policy, which we have now done, and I’m pleased that we have taken the positive decision in lifting the criteria on schools that are eligible for free salt supplies.

“We are extremely grateful to the schools, parish and town councils, and community groups who help to clear snow and ice from minor roads, pavements and footpaths using the free salt we provide.

"During cold weather our priority is to keep the main routes as safe as possible.  On each salting run we will cover around 1,400 miles of road, so it is a huge task."

The council already provides bagged salt to more than 200 local community groups, including parish and town councils, so they can help with snow and ice clearing.

Salt bins are provided in more than 1,000 locations around the county for “self-help” during icy weather.