To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the budget her Department has allocated for salt boxes for winter 2025-26, broken down by DfI Roads Division.

My Department commits significant resources to maintaining approximately 5,600 salt bins that are provided for use by the public, on a self-help basis on public roads which do not qualify for inclusion on the gritting schedule, providing the necessary criteria are met.

There is no specific budget allocation for salt boxes, instead, when a salt box is requested, my officials will carry out an evaluation using a criteria based system which takes into account various factors including topography, traffic volume, road gradient/geometry, alternative routes as well as other factors such as residential usage and community facilities including schools, hospitals and care homes for the elderly.

Residents can make an application to the Department to request the installation of a salt bin in their area however, provision of new salt boxes is not automatic and may be refused if the location in question is not on the publicly maintained road network; the gradient of the road in question is less than 5%; or if reasonable alternative routes are available.

I can confirm that our salt reserves have been filled to capacity over the summer months in preparation for the beginning of winter service, with additional re-orders available throughout the winter as required.