It’s become increasingly impossible to take a walk or run on any stretch of the beach in Southampton without encountering at least one cluster of party balloons, sitting on the sand or floating in the water — jarring remnants of celebrations that oddly leave no other trace: Chairs and umbrellas, chicken bones and bottles of rosé are all responsibly removed. But, inexplicably, not the hideous balloons, which are not only an eyesore but an environmental hazard.
Last January, legislation was proposed and, I understand, subsequently passed by Southampton Town prohibiting the sale, distribution and release of plastic, latex or mylar balloons. Well-intentioned, the ban is clearly toothless.
So when it’s time to leave the beach, it’s ultimately up to the participants to pick up those miserable balloons along with the rest of their party detritus.
Not holding my breath, of course. But cold weather looms. Which means a welcome respite from the beach balloons.
Tom Murray
Southampton
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