…… interestingly, here in Lincoln (UK), the City Council used to have its contractors deposit the autumn leaf sweepings in the parking area of our allotment site for gardeners to take away and use – but then (about three seasons ago), the DfEE issued advice that councils should desist the practice because of the potential for toxins (oils etc) in road sweepings. We’d hoped they’d continue to let us have the park sweepings – but no: sadly. Although the contractors continue to drop off huge piles of tree chippings … which never seem to last long!
My personal experience is that the chippings become woodlouse heaven ……. and those little beasties are always happy to exploit a wee bit of slug damage to a plant – which leaves me uncertain of the merit of the chippings as paths around beds.