Shipping containers and debris that have been washing ashore along the Sussex coastline remain under close observation by maritime authorities as clean-up efforts continue and more units are reported. Severe weather in recent days has seen multiple containers and fragmented cargo come ashore from Seaford to Selsey, prompting public safety warnings and coordinated responses from council teams and HM Coastguard.
Since the storms earlier this month, emergency services and local authorities have been tracking the situation along both East and West Sussex beaches. Containers have been found at several locations, including Seaford, Elmer, Selsey, Eastbourne, Newhaven, Rustington, Rottingdean and Beachy Head, with crews working to clear wreckage and ensure safety for residents and visitors.
Ongoing Surveillance and Clean-Up Operations
An HM Coastguard fixed-wing aircraft has been tasked with aerial surveillance of the offshore area to spot drifting containers and debris, while ground teams and contracted salvage crews continue efforts to locate and remove units that have washed ashore. Authorities confirm that cargo lists show the containers lost from vessels in recent storms contain non-hazardous goods, but they still urge caution due to unstable structures and sharp edges.
Coastguard officials have emphasised that responsibility for the recovery of all lost containers lies with the vessels’ operators, although the Coastguard is coordinating with these companies and salvage teams to support the process. Members of the public are being urged to report any sightings — both at sea and on beaches — to Solent Coastguard, either by phone or VHF radio. Any non-perishable wreck material that washes ashore must also be reported to the Receiver of Wreck within 28 days.
Local Authority Response and Public Safety Advice
In response to the ongoing situation, East Sussex County Council has activated clean-up operations on affected shorelines, working closely with district and borough teams to clear container fragments and associated debris safely. Residents and visitors have been advised to keep clear of any wreckage, as containers can be unstable and pose a hazard — particularly in high tides and rough conditions.
Similarly, West Sussex County Council and other regional authorities are conducting beach clean-ups and debris management along areas such as Elmer in Bognor Regis and stretches of the West Sussex shoreline. Salvage teams, including contractors Ambipar and AR Banks, are recovering debris where weather and sea conditions permit, although work is ongoing and may take time to complete safely.
Public Caution Still Urged
With more containers and fragments still being spotted both offshore and on land, councils and the Coastguard continue to appeal to the public to avoid interacting with any washed-up containers or debris. These structures may be unstable and contain loose materials that could cause injury if disturbed. Dog owners, in particular, have been asked to keep pets on leads away from affected sections of beach.
Authorities remain vigilant in monitoring the situation as weather conditions evolve, with further updates expected as more containers are located and removed.
