Port's Slow Response to Plastic Pellet Spill Under Fire

A vessel collision at the Port of Tyne on Sunday resulted in a spill of plastic pellets, commonly known as nurdles, into the sea. The incident occurred when the Wind Orca struck a berthed container ship, the BG Orange, leading to a subsequent gantry crane collapse on the quayside.

North Tyneside Mayor Karen Clark expressed concerns regarding the port's initial response and communication with local authorities. She stated that while progress has been made in containment, the speed of the initial response requires further investigation and explanation.

The Port of Tyne confirmed its response plan was activated immediately after becoming aware of the spill. A floating barrier has been deployed around the affected ship to prevent further discharge, and cleanup operations using boats are in progress.

However, the port cited safety assessments of the crane and ship as a reason for initial access limitations, describing the situation as a complex salvage operation. The plastic pellets, raw materials for most plastic products, are not toxic but can be harmful to wildlife if consumed.

The nurdles have already been found washing up on beaches in North Tyneside, South Tyneside, and as far south as Seaburn in Sunderland. Local authorities are actively monitoring coastlines and organizing clean-up tasks, urging residents to report any sightings and keep pets on leads in affected areas.