White Foam Seen on River Gipping: Environment Agency Starts Investigation

Environment Officials Investigate Mysterious White Foam on River Gipping

A strange layer of thick white foam has been spotted across multiple locations of the River Gipping in Suffolk, leading the Environment Agency to launch a full investigation. The foam was first noticed over the weekend between Needham Market and Sproughton, and continued drifting downstream into Ipswich on Monday.

Local residents shared concerns about possible pollution, fearing the foam could be linked to chemicals or waste discharge. In response, Environment Agency teams visited several sites, collected water samples, and began tracing the possible source of the contamination.

According to the agency, early tests show no immediate harm to the river’s ecosystem, and no negative effects on wildlife have been detected so far. However, officers are continuing their efforts to determine what caused the large amount of foam to form on the water’s surface.

The River Gipping eventually flows into the River Orwell estuary, a key location for both wildlife and recreational activities. Images captured from bridges and riverside footpaths show pockets of foam drifting along the water, raising questions among residents and local environmental groups.

Authorities say they understand the public’s concern and will release further updates once the source of the foam is identified. For now, the Environment Agency is assuring people that the river remains safe, but investigations are ongoing.