Nurdle, specialists in the removal of microplastics from the environment, is back at Camber this week to continue with the clean-up of the bio-bead spill that occurred in early November 2025 when millions of plastic bio-beads escaped into the sea off the East Sussex coast following a mechanical failure at Southern Water’s Eastbourne sewage treatment works.
The high spring tides of 12-14 September and strong winds have caused more of the plastic beads to be washed ashore, and others that had been buried in the sand to resurface.
A statement from Southern Water was issued on Sunday 13 September to reassure the public “that no new beads have left our Eastbourne Wastewater Treatment Works. Specialist clean-up teams planned to begin a beach clean once the tides have passed on Tuesday (15 September). The beach remains open and safe to enjoy, including swimming and dog walking in permitted areas.”
Nurdle use specialist vacuum equipment to remove beads from the sand and the seaweed, and are committed to return to continue clearing the beach for the next 3 years.
The QR codes above will take you to a booking form to two events where local people can have their say on how a Southern Water compensation fund should be spent.
There’s one in Rye on 17 October and one in Camber 18 October. To attend the event contact Helena Dollimore’s office via email hello@helenadollimore.com or phone 01424 424125.
Image Credits: Nurdle .