New Flare Disposal Facility To Open At Cowes Harbour

A new flare disposal facility has opened at Cowes Harbour, offering a safe and convenient way for boat owners and the public to get rid of old or expired marine flares.

The year-round service is available during normal opening hours at Kingston Boatyard and Shepards Marina offices, with a small disposal fee.

Unlike previous amnesties, the facility is open to everyone, with no limit on the number of flares dropped off.

All collected flares will be safely transported to Ocean Safety for proper disposal.

Natasha Dix, Isle of Wight Council’s Service Director for Waste, Environment and Planning,

said:

"Flares are highly flammable and cannot be disposed of in household bins or at HWRCs.

"This new facility provides a safe, reliable way to protect both people and the environment."

Jennie Smith, Deputy Harbour Master at Cowes Harbour Commission, added:

"Since HM Coastguard stopped accepting flares, there has been a gap in services.

"This is the Island’s first and only TEP reception facility, helping keep the harbour and marine environment safe."

Residents are reminded never to fire expired or damaged flares, dump them on land or at sea, or hand them to untrained individuals.

For more information, visit Cowes Harbour Commission or call 293952.