Officers from three government departments said they would today investigate an illegal dump off Shek O's main beach after receiving a letter from frustrated residents demanding a cleanup.
The dump is about 1,800 sq ft and sits at the west end of the beach, between a temple and barbecue area. For at least a year, people have dumped chairs, bed frames, electrical appliances, clothes, shoes, and black refuse sacks full of rubbish, residents say.
'I have noticed a significant increase in size over the last few months,' said a resident who wished to remain unnamed. 'The person responsible for this needs to be held accountable.'
Residents say someone is taking rubbish out of the Shek O Refuse Centre - a designated area to dispose of household items - and carrying it to the illegal dump, not more than 100 metres away.
The dump, which is only visible from a concrete path leading up the hillside, backs onto a stream that feeds directly into the sea. Industrial pallets beside the stream hold the debris - about 2 metres high in areas - in place.
'It was beautiful before, full of trees and bush and left alone in its natural state,' said another resident. 'I'm disgusted and saddened that there's such a lack of respect for the area.'
Residents sent a letter to three government departments, including the Environmental Protection Department, which assigned a case officer to the situation.