More than a dozen beaches in Kent are closed to the public after 'significant' oil spill

Margate Main Sands is one of more than a dozen beaches which has been closed to the public. Credit: ITV Meridian

Beaches in Thanet have been closed to the public after a "significant" oil spill.

Thanet District Council says significant deposits have been found along the coast from Westbrook Bay in Margate to Ramsgate Main Sands.

Signs have been put in place to warn the public and access routes are closed.

Dog owners should avoid the affected beaches.

The affected beaches:

  • Minnis Bay

  • Grenham Bay

  • Epple Bay

  • West Bay

  • St Mildred’s Bay

  • Westbrook Bay

  • Margate Main Sands

  • Walpole Bay

  • Palm Bay

  • Botany Bay

  • Kingsgate Bay

  • Joss Bay

  • Stone Bay

  • Viking Bay

  • Louisa Bay

  • Dumpton Gap

  • Ramsgate East Cliff

  • Ramsgate Main Sands

A council spokesperson said; "Inspections by the council’s coastal engineers are underway and signs will be placed at relevant locations to warn the public of the incident and notify them that access to the beach is not permitted.

"Dog owners must not take their dogs onto the affected beaches.

"The decision to restrict access to affected beaches has not been taken lightly.

"Members of the public are strongly advised to stay away from any deposits of oil and to report any sightings to the council on 01843 577000."

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