Group to tackle Rhyl beach marine litter

A litter pick is set to tackle marine littering on a popular section of Rhyl’s shoreline this month.

Fresh from tackling beach areas near the East Nova carpark and Barkby Beach at Prestatyn, Denbighshire County Council’s Flood Risk Team is organising an event to cover areas coastal areas around Rhyl Pavilion.

The beach clean will take place on May 27 from 2pm until 3pm. Those who want to support the marine litter pick are welcome to join the group at Rhyl Pavillion Theatre car park by 2pm.

This Rhyl event will also be supported by Keep Wales Tidy who will provide some of the litter picking equipment.

Marine litter can block up waterways and drainage, stopping the flow of water, leading to higher risks of localised flooding further upstream.

Removing marine litter off beaches can provide stronger help also to natural defences as shorelines, dunes and seagrass beds are more able to maintain their natural function as defences against the sea.

Claudia Smith, Coastal Erosion and Flood Risk Officer, said: “We want to this time concentrate on the stretch of the promenade by the Rhyl Pavilion as we know more marine litter tends to wash up this side which can contribute to local flooding and damage the environment and wildlife as well.”

Councillor Barry Mellor, Cabinet Lead Member for Highways and the Environment, said: “Managing the risk of localised flooding from the impact of marine litter washing up on our beaches is extremely important to protect people from flooding.  It’s also much better for the wellbeing of our residents and those who visit these areas and the wildlife found on these beaches, I would encourage anyone who feel like they can make a difference to join in and help.”

For further details contact claudia.smith@denbighshire.gov.uk/ 07785517398