"Please do not touch or attempt to remove" - Havant Borough Council announce warning as shipping container debris washes up on Hayling Island
Beachgoers are being warned not to touch “potentially hazardous” debris that has washed up on Hayling Island beach.
Items such as insulation foam has been spotted on the beach at South Hayling on Tuesday, January 13. It is possible that it is debris from shipping containers that fell off cargo ships during Storm Goretti off the coast of the Isle of Wight at the end of last week.
Havant Borough Council are making arrangements for the debris to removed safely but in the meantime they are warning people to not to attempt to remove it themselves.
A council spokesperson said: “ We have received reports of possible shipping container debris (such as insulation foam) washing up on the beach at South Hayling. The situation is being monitored and arrangements in place for safe clean-up.
“Whilst we appreciate everyone helping to keep our beaches clean, please do not touch or attempt to remove any debris, as contents may be unknown and potentially hazardous. Please also keep children and pets away from the debris.”
24 containers fell into the sea overnight on Thursday, January 8 as gusts hit 70mph. The containers fell from two separate cargo ships, one of which reported 17 falling near the Nab Tower at around 11.10pm, while seven more fell overboard from a vessel situated south of St Catherine’s Point at around midnight.
The council spokesperson added: “If you see any container waste, please report it by calling 01202 653 558 or emailing [email protected], so it can be safely dealt with. Thank you for helping to keep our beaches safe.”