A new recycling bin in the shape of a seashell, created by Lincolnshire firm Blackrow Engineering, has been installed in Sutton on Sea for people to dispose of their plastic bottles. The design of the metal installation was chosen following a poll of local residents through the East Lindsey District Council’s website and social media channels.
The facility has been funded by the East Coast Community Fund, the community engagement programme for Ørsted’s Race Bank and Hornsea Project One offshore wind farms.
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‘The new recycling bin and art piece is a great initiative to encourage visitors to do their bit to recycle and keep Sutton on Sea tidy for everyone who lives and visits there,’ said Cllr Graham Marsh, portfolio holder for community safety, leisure and culture, and carbon reduction at East Lindsey District Council. ‘I would like to thank residents who took the time to vote for their favourite design, as well as Blackrow Engineering for designing and making this fantastic structure. Plastic waste on beaches is particularly harmful to marine life and birds, as well as being unsightly for those who enjoy our Blue-flag beach. Every plastic bottle placed in this facility will be recycled, so do make use of it and help us look after our environment.’
‘Thank you to Blackrow Engineering for making this recycling facility for Sutton on Sea, which is the first such structure for the whole East Lindsey coastline, said Cllr Martin Foster, portfolio holder for operational services at East Lindsey District Council. ‘This is a fantastic installation designed to encourage people to dispose of their plastic bottles in the correct way, helping us to keep the award-winning beach and promenade litter free.’
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‘The bin needed to be not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, fitting seamlessly into the seaside environment,’ said Gary Pexman, director at Blackrow Engineering. ‘Sean McCoid, Blackrow’s senior draughtsperson, took charge of the design phase. He acquired a Fasciolaria tulipa shell to serve as the model for the bin, meticulously setting out the sizes and dimensions.
The intricate process of crafting the structure was undertaken by Blackrow’s skilled tradesman Paul Moore, with the assistance of apprentice James Gill. The duo dedicated about 250 hours to complete the build. According to Pexman, their expertise and attention to detail were crucial in bringing the design to life, resulting in a stunning and functional piece of art.
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Once the structure was completed, it was handed over to the Blackrow paint shop team for lacquering. This final step was necessary to protect the sculpture from the harsh coastal weather conditions and ensure its longevity.
Additional interpretation panels have been installed behind the structure to provide further information about the importance of the marine environment as part of the council’s Motion for the Ocean Pledge.