Police forensics officers were earlier pictured at the beach and the surrounding area on the Donaghadee Road area of Millisle village.
It’s understood the body, believed to be a male, was found by a dog walker earlier this afternoon and was significantly decomposed when it was located.
Police and emergency services attend a major incident at Millisle beach this afternoon. Picture by Jonathan Porter / Press Eye
The public have been advised to remain away from the area while investigations continue.
It comes amid widespread shock among local politicians following the discovery.
DUP MLA Stephen Dunne said his thoughts were with the person’s loved ones.
“I was shocked by the news that a body had been discovered on a quiet beach in Millisle,” he said.
“My thoughts and prayers are with this individual’s family and friends at this most difficult time.
“Millisle is a tight-knit community, and there is understandably a great deal of concern locally after what has been a distressing week for the village.
“I will be working with the PSNI to ensure the local community feels safe and reassured, but I would urge everyone to give the Police the space and time needed to conduct their investigations and avoid unnecessary speculation at this time.”
DUP Councillor Robert Adair said the community will be shaken by the news.
“We need to remember this will be a tragedy for a family somewhere, and my thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time,” he said.
“This is someone’s loved one, who will be told they have lost them – and my heart goes out to them.
“The community of Millisle is shocked and saddened by this ordeal, and behind the news headline there will be a family grieving and my prayers are with them.”
Meanwhile local UUP councillor Pete Wray wrote online: “Sadly I can confirm that a body has been found on Millisle beach this afternoon. Initial reports indicate the body has been brought in from the sea.
“PSNI remain at the scene and I would ask everyone to give them the time and space to conduct their investigation.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the family who will be impacted by this and the individual who found the body.”
Police and emergency services attend a major incident at Millisle beach this afternoon. Picture by Jonathan Porter / Press Eye
News Catch Up – Wednesday 21 May
A PSNI spokesperson said: “Police are currently in attendance after a body was found on the beach in the Donaghadee Road area of Millisle today, Wednesday 21 May.
“Cordons are in place and the public is asked to avoid the area.”