Wolverhampton's grit bins will be fitted with sensors to see when they need refilling

The sensors are being tested at selected locations to see if they can save time and money by identifying which bins are used the most and helping the council draw up more efficient refilling routes.

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Wolverhampton Council said it had refilled its 260 grit bins over the past week ready in preparation for the next cold snap. 

Councillor Qaiser Azeem, cabinet member for transport, said: "We are in the early stages of testing this technology, but the sensors will be a useful tool in helping us monitor the use of grit bins in the city.

“By using the data provided by the sensors, we will be able to focus resources where they are most needed, helping to ensure the safety of residents.”

The council said so far this winter its gritting crews had already covered more than 8,600 miles, spreading about 2,400 tons of rock salt, often overnight. 

They remain on standby 24 hours a day, the council added. 

But the council said that with about 480 miles of road and nearly 800 miles of footpaths in Wolverhampton, gritters could not treat the entire highways network - and did not grit pavements.

It said residents were encouraged to make use of grit bins in their streets, and anyone could make a request for a grit bin, or a refill, through the council's website.