The Environment Agency has issued a pollution alert for the water at Minnis Bay in Birchington.
The agency says: “Bathing is not advised, due to pollution from harmful algae.
“This incident has been identified as an abnormal situation, water quality monitoring has been suspended. Monitoring will resume once the incident is over.”
The notice was issued at 4.39pm today (May 20) and follows reports of dead marine life along the coastline.
Thanet council says: “We have been made aware of a possible pollution incident at Minnis Bay, Birchington-on-Sea, following reports of dead marine life on the coastline.
“The council is working with the Environment Agency, which is investigating the reports and testing water samples.
“Signs have been put in place between Minnis Bay and West Bay in Westgate-on-Sea, advising members of the public to stay above the high water mark and to refrain from entering the water.
“Dog owners are asked to keep their dogs on a lead at all times when on the beaches in this location.
“The council is actively monitoring the coastline to assess the extent of the incident. Further information will follow tomorrow after the latest inspections.”
