Council appeal following theft of gully grids

Date: 13 March 2023

Reference Number: 6079

Cheshire West and Chester Council has reported the theft of highway grid covers across Winsford and Northwich. 

Over 30 gully/grid covers were taken on Thursday night (9 March), leaving a dangerous hole in the road at each site. A white van has been spotted in areas of Winsford, Weaverham, Banton and Hartford. 

The Council has made the areas safe with cones and are arranging for permanent repairs. 

Councillor Karen Shore, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member – Environment, Highways & Strategic Transport said: “These recent thefts of highway grids are a challenge for our highways team. The thieves are creating a hazard for road users, and the grids are costly to replace. We are working with the Police to catch the culprits but would appreciate any assistance from residents to report any suspicious activity they may have seen”. 

Gully grids, prevent large debris as well as animals from entering the drainage system. 

Please call the Police on 101 and quote incident number: IML1496847 or call the Council on 0300 123 7036 if you notice any suspicious activities.