The Kent Police and Crime Commissioner has confirmed a drop in the number of trucks illegally dumping at a coastal crime hotspot – but those living nearby say too much “damage has already been done” for it to make a difference.

PCC Matthew Scott visited Sheppey and met with Kent County Councillor (KCC) Mike Whiting, who represents the Swale West Division, to discuss environmental crime on the Island.

In June, after a three-year fight, the Environment Agency finally blocked access to a site in Eastchurch which was suspected of being used as an illegal dump.

A court order is now in place prohibiting anyone from entering or depositing waste at the end of Third Avenue – known locally as Eastchurch Gap.

It’s been reported previously there are two dumping hotspots along the Sheppey coast.

Not only is waste being dumped by the Eastchurch Gap but also by Warden Bay.

Earlier this year a Minster fossil hunter claimed the area was being used as a dump for human faeces.

Mr Scott visited the area last Friday, July 28, and took to social media to share his understanding of the situation.

He said: “We’ve been visiting the Isle of Sheppey to discuss large-scale flytipping which is littering beaches.

“Trucks dumping illegal waste, some coming from far away, are also causing a nuisance for local residents, blocking and damaging roads and pavements.

“Following enforcement there has been a reduction in the number of trucks and local people have been out beach cleaning.”

But Daniel Hogburn, from Minster, says although the crime commisioner’s involvement is all well and good, the organisations involved in stopping the crime should also look into how they can help clean up the affected areas.

Daniel, who has been fighting for the Island’s beaches since 2021, said: “Unfortunately the damage is done regardless of how much activity there is at present.

“Apparently the trucks are still frequenting at Eastchurch but we don't know if or where they're currently tipping, it doesn't appear to be on the cliff but it must be nearby.

“Sadly the greater part that remains on the cliff will be washing out for generations to come unless the authorities dig it out and dispose of it properly – something which is very unlikely to happen.

“The usual practice seems to be to let the sea take care of the bulk and clear the remainder from public beaches.

“It would be nice if all the authorities involved would commit to restoring the beach to its former glory and giving the site the recognition it so deserves but we know that'll never happen.”

Cllr Whiting, who showed Mr Scott the dumping site, explained that although he isn’t currently aware of a plan for a big clean up of the site there is a “complicated legal process” underway.

He said: “I wanted the PCC to visit Sheppey so we could show him wider issues on the Island and highlight the importance of good policing in the area.

“It was good to get his reassurance that the police are doing what they need to do to keep this Island safe.

“I also made him aware of where this dumping was taking place as he was less familiar with that part of Sheppey.

“I do want to pay tribute to the Environment Agency as there has been a difference made in the illegal dumping at Eastchurch Gap.

“This is also thanks to Kent County Council and the police. This is a multi-agency issue and they’re all playing their part.”

Mr Scott was asked about the fact rubbish on Sheppey’s beaches still looks just as bad as before the court order.

However, the PCC was unable to answer the questions as he was on annual leave.

A spokesman for him added: “It’s certainly a work in progress. There has been a reduction of vehicles dumping on parts of the island, but there is still work to do.

“Flytipping is really a council issue, although the police can also be involved when it involves illegal vehicles and trespassing.”