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Toxic Algae Alert: East Sussex Beauty Spot Closed
22 May
Summary
- Toxic blue-green algae detected in Cuckmere River at Seven Sisters.
- Visitors and pets warned to avoid water contact.
- Toxins can cause illness in humans and death in animals.
A toxic blue-green algae has been identified in the Cuckmere River at Seven Sisters Country Park, prompting an urgent warning from the South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA).
Visitors are strongly advised to stay out of the water and keep pets on leads at all times. The SDNPA emphasized that while blue-green algae is natural, certain types can produce toxins harmful to both people and animals.
These toxins can cause skin rashes and illnesses if ingested by humans, and have been known to be fatal to wildlife and livestock. Due to the difficulty in visually distinguishing toxic from non-toxic blooms, it is recommended to assume all present algae is hazardous.
The SDNPA is collaborating with the Environment Agency to determine the necessary actions and will provide further updates as information becomes available.
