Overview
- Southern Water said it is highly likely the pellets originated from its Eastbourne wastewater treatment works and issued a public apology.
- The utility reported a screening filter failure during heavy rainfall that allowed biobeads used in treatment to be released into the sea.
- Rother District Council is leading multi-day clean-ups at Camber Sands with volunteers and specialist charities, and said most could be cleared by Monday though tides may deposit more.
- The Environment Agency has begun a thorough investigation, and Water Minister Emma Hardy said she was deeply disappointed after speaking with the company’s chief executive.
- Strandliners and other campaigners warn the pellets contain toxic substances, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and can be ingested by wildlife, as local officials note unusually high recent seal and porpoise strandings.