Following the recent Llandudno North Shore beach clean arranged by Janet Finch-Saunders, Assembly Member for Aberconwy, and Ms Clare Reed of the Marine Conservation Society, the Member is taking action to address the finding by her, and all volunteers on the day, that the beach is being used as an ashtray by some.
Janet said:
“During the beach clean around 20 volunteers and I succeeded to remove 27kg of waste from the beach. Whilst I wish to reiterate my thanks to all who came along to make the shore a cleaner place, one major problem has to be tackled head on.
“What we found is that the beach is being used as an ashtray by some.
“Shockingly, hundreds of cigarette stubs were found in just over an hour. For example, one team of three picked up 308 stubs!
“Given the outrageousness of the situation and the serious risk these stubs can cause if consumed by marine life and birds, I have written to the Cabinet Member for Environment, Conwy County Borough Council, asking for action to be taken to address this problem.
“Whilst I look forward to cooperating with the Council, I do hope that any individuals smoking beside or on the beach thinks twice before dropping a cigarette – particularly when sitting on the many benches selflessly doted in memory of loved ones. As I hope all will agree, our beach would be a far safer and more pleasant place if such practices were stopped”.
ENDS
Document:
Letter to Councillor Donald Milne, Cabinet Member for Environment, Roads and Facilities, Conwy County Borough Council
Notes:
Volunteers Tackle Beach Litter – Despite the Rain!
Photo:
Janet and two of her team at a cigarette stub hot spot