FREE drinking fountains should be installed across Southend in a bid to slash the number of plastic drinks bottles being littered, a green activist has said.

Lauren Ekins, an activist from Southend, used last week’s full council meeting to ask Lydia Hyde, councillor responsible for the environment and waste, about water fountains being made available to residents and visitors.

Ms Hyde agreed that during the meeting that tackling plastic waste as well as providing free water would have a number of benefits.

Ms Ekins said: “Long before Southend was turned into a concrete jungle, there were water pumps, wells, and drinking fountains all around the town providing fresh drinking water to residents and holidaymakers.

“Last summer, the council paid Veolia to collect 20 tonnes of rubbish and litter from the seafront alone each weekend.

“Imagine if the residents and tourists throwing away all those plastic drink bottles could refill just one bottle from one of Southend’s drinking water fountains. How much would that save the council on rubbish collection in the future?”

On World Refill Day, Southend Council gave away free reusable drinking bottles and other eco-friendly products.

They also encouraged residents to use the “City to Sea” refill app which connects people to places that provide free access to drinking water as well as places to eat, drink and shop with less waste.

Ms Hyde said: “I agree that we must seek out new ways to tackle plastic waste, especially on our seafront.

“The council does invest in its operational buildings through the property refurbishment programme and other capital programmes.

“As part of this, the council will consider where water refill points may be appropriately provided for residents, visitors, and staff including seeking funding from external sources where available.”

Stuart Allen, a councillor representing the Green Party, added: “It is a refreshing idea and I’m happy the portfolio holder is taking the suggestion seriously.

“Access to drinking water is common in many cities, but Southend is lacking in such provision. There is a clear case for this kind of investment on social and health grounds.

“Anything we can do to reduce the litter plaguing our streets and beaches, the better.”