In my experience rock salt breaks up compacted snow into a pink powder that then gets trampled further, continuing the good work.
It also removes any underlying ice.

This pink snow is filthy stuff, but it is safe to walk on.
Works brilliantly with London sized portions of snow and my expectation is in the absence of the yellow hoppers, the council figure out another way to distribute the stuff for self service. This is reasonable.

Plus there is no debate - read the government advice carefully - do not make the pavements worse. If you are not sure then leave it, whatever mother might say.