EASTBOURNE Borough Council has thanked volunteers, partner agencies and council staff for their ‘fantastic community response’ as clean-up operations continue following the recent shipping container debris incident along the coast.
Large numbers of residents have taken part in litter picks across local beaches in recent days, helping to remove food waste, packaging and other debris washed ashore.
The council says its own teams will continue to support these efforts by collecting waste gathered by volunteers throughout the district.
In an update, the council issued important guidance for anyone getting involved in beach clean-ups to ensure waste can be removed quickly and safely.
Volunteers are being asked not to empty any liquids they find, and to keep food waste separate from other rubbish where possible. However, if sacks of vegetables are discovered, the council advises keeping them in their original bags, as this significantly speeds up removal by collection crews.
Collected items should be left near the nearest Eastbourne Borough Council litter bin for collection. If the volume of waste is too large to move, volunteers are asked to contact council contractor Adler and Allan on 0800 592 827, providing the exact location using the what3words reference system.
The council has also reminded residents to report the location of any shipping containers found on land using a what3words reference. Any sightings of containers at sea should be reported immediately to Solent Coastguard on 0344 382 0560.
For those planning to organise their own litter pick, Eastbourne Borough Council has requested that organisers get in touch in advance so collections can be coordinated and equipment provided where possible.
Safety remains a key concern. The council is urging volunteers to check tide times and weather warnings before heading out, and to follow official Keep Britain Tidy guidance when litter picking along the coastline. Dog owners are also being asked to keep pets away from affected areas, as some of the washed-up food items could be harmful.
In closing, the council again praised the community effort, saying the support shown by residents has played a vital role in responding to the incident and helping protect Eastbourne’s coastline as clean-up operations continue.
