Anglian Water has teamed up with Fantasy Island and ECAS (Environmental Compliance and Services) to deliver a landmark environmental initiative aimed at protecting local waterways and future-proofing food service operations. By installing grease-trapping systems across the site’s food outlets, Fantasy Island is setting a new standard for responsible environmental management in the leisure and tourism sector. 
 
A significant number of food service outlets across Fantasy Island have already installed grease management systems, with additional installations underway and expected to be completed by March 2026. This wide-reaching effort highlights the park’s strong commitment to environmental responsibility and community leadership. 
 
This work forms part of a wider Anglian Water initiative with ECAS taking place across the region to tackle sewer misuse and reduce avoidable blockages. Since this collaborative effort began in 2019, it has already prevented an estimated 6,440 tonnes of fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from entering the sewer network — the same weight of more than 50 blue whales kept out of local drains and waterways. Fantasy Island’s latest step adds further momentum to this important environmental progress on a local level. 
 
And Fantasy Island isn’t the only one getting involved. Other staycation favourites along the East Coast — including Haven and 50 other holiday parks — are now working with Anglian Water and ECAS too. These businesses are coming together to spread the word about what should and shouldn’t go down the drain, helping visitors and staff alike make better everyday choices. 
 
When Adam Flitter, Environmental Enforcement Officer at ECAS, first toured the Fantasy Island site, no food service establishments (FSEs) had grease management systems in place. However, the businesses on site were eager to collaborate once made aware of the environmental and operational benefits. 
 
James Parker, Director of Operations at Fantasy Island, said: 
 
“Once we understood the impact that unmanaged grease can have on the environment and local community, it was a no-brainer. This is something all businesses will need to address eventually, so why not get ahead of the curve and do the right thing now? It’s about protecting the place we all enjoy and depend on.” 
 
In the Anglian Water region, 80% of sewer flooding incidents are caused by blockages, many of which are the result of fats, oils, and grease (FOG) entering the sewer system. Last year alone, Anglian Water cleared over 35,000 blockages, removing tonnes of waste that could have caused flooding and pollution. 
 
Wipes are also a major contributor to this problem. Around half a million wipes - that’s 9,500 packets - are flushed into our region’s sewers every day. When flushed, wipes can mix with fats, oils, and other unflushable items, creating solid blockages because wipes don’t break down like toilet paper and can take over 100 years to decompose — even those labelled ‘flushable’ or ‘fine to flush’. 
 
Connor Brailsford, Programme Manager at Anglian Water, commented: 
 
“Stopping fats, oils, and grease at the source is one of the most effective ways to protect our environment - especially when combined with action on unflushable items like wipes. Which is why we’re working in blockage hotspots like Skegness to raise awareness and protect the local community through partnerships like this one. Fantasy Island’s proactive approach is a shining example of how businesses can play a vital role in keeping our sewers clear and our coastline clean.” 
 
Reflecting on the progress made, Adam Flitter, Environmental Enforcement Officer at ECAS, said: 
 
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved with Fantasy Island. To see so many businesses take this seriously and commit to making a change is exactly why we do this work. It’s been a real team effort, and the positive environmental impact will be felt for years to come.” 
 
James Parker added a message to other food businesses and leisure destinations: 
 
“Grease management isn’t complicated. The process is straightforward, and the costs are minimal when you consider the long-term benefits to both the environment and your business.” 
 
Customers and visitors are also being urged to play their part. “Whether you’re at home or on holiday, dispose of fats and oils properly. It’s quick, easy, and makes a huge difference to protecting our drains and waterways.” 
 
Anglian Water’s ‘Just Bin It’ campaign continues to raise awareness of what should and shouldn’t go down the drain. Whether it’s wet wipes, fats, or oils, every small action adds up to big environmental benefits. 
 
Connor Brailsford added: 
  
“We’re asking everyone - businesses and customers alike - to take a moment and think before they flush or pour. If it’s not pee, poo, or toilet paper, it belongs in the bin, not the drain. Together, through initiatives like this and everyday good habits, we can protect our homes, beaches, and environment for future generations.” 

Anglian Water’s Network Protection team continues to support FSEs across the region in installing effective grease-management equipment. FSEs yet to take this step are encouraged to get in touch for personalised help and advice from Anglian Water. By adopting simple, proven solutions, businesses can strengthen their environmental performance and help protect local waterways. To find out more and book a visit, follow this link: Working together with Food Service Establishments.