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PLA Sports Clubs Discounts
PLA River Works Licenses: Charges and Discounts for Sports Clubs
The Port of London Authority (PLA) has introduced a refreshed approach to how sports clubs on the tidal Thames are charged for River Works Licenses (RWLs). Our new discount structure supports clubs in making the river more accessible for sport and leisure, while keeping costs as low as possible.
About the Port of London Authority
As a trust port, the Port of London Authority (PLA) has no shareholders and operates for the benefit of customers and stakeholders now and in the future. Our operations cover 95 miles of the River Thames, from Teddington to the North Sea. We work to keep commercial and leisure users safe, protect and enhance the environment, and promote the use of the river for trade and travel.
The PLA receives no government funding and has no shareholders - all income is reinvested in the river. A trust port is defined by the Department of Transport as ‘a valuable asset presently safeguarded by the existing Board, whose duty it is to hand it on in the same or better condition to succeeding generations. This remains the ultimate responsibility of the Board, and future generations remain the ultimate stakeholder.’
As the Statutory Harbour Authority, the PLA has a key role to play in providing core safety, environmental and commercial services to a huge range of customers and we seek to do that in the most cost-effective way possible. We also have a duty to maintain our assets in resilient condition, to facilitate a wide range of stakeholders using the river and to enable the port and river to continue to play its role sustainably, long into the future.
All of this is brought together in Thames Vision 2050, published in 2022, and available on the PLA website.
Active Thames
The PLA is committed to promoting use of the river for sport and, in 2021, established the Active Thames programme as a key part of the Thames Vision. Active Thames supports the development of water sports and walking on the tidal Thames and inland waterways in London, Kent and Essex with the objectives of increasing the sporting offer, supporting the growth and development of the workforce, maximising the use of clubhouses and the Thames path, and improving access and inclusion. There are two employees dedicated to Active Thames, and there are two assistant Harbour Masters who focus on sports events and safe boating.
The organisations working together on Active Thames include; Active Essex, Active Kent & Medway, London Sport, British Rowing, Paddle UK, RYA, Canal & River Trust, Thames Path National Trail and PLA. Find out more at activethames.co.uk
River Works Licenses
A River Works Licence (RWL) is a permission granted by the Port of London Authority (PLA) for an individual or organisation to place structures (works) on sections of the River Thames registered as PLA property, ensuring there is no unlawful use. The PLA charges a licence fee for a RWL, which compensates for the use of its land and enables the PLA to carry out its obligations and various activities on the river.
River Works Licenses (RWLs) are necessary for any structure or facility on the river, ensuring safe, environmentally responsible, and commercially viable use of the waterway. Sports clubs are charged significantly less than commercial entities for RWLs, and with our refreshed discount structure, they may receive further reductions to help them thrive.
The PLA is transitioning to using CPI instead of RPI for sports clubs licences, aligning with the UK Government's decision to adopt CPI as a more accurate and reliable measure of inflation starting in 2030.
Discount Structure Overview
A sports club is defined as a facility with the primary goal of supporting people to take part in sporting activities. This also includes sports organisations, training centres and charities.
All sports clubs will receive a 45% discount on their river works licences as standard. All sports clubs are eligible to apply for an additional discount, of up to 55%, if they meet the criteria specified below.
*Open Active
Any opportunities which are open to the community need to be digitally accessible, too. Simply listing an activity on one platform, e.g. Facebook, would not be considered digitally accessible. More information on Open Active is available here https://www.openactive.io/ and a free platform for all clubs to use is available here: https://opensessions.io/#/home
**Exceptions may be made for clubs formed according to unique interests or demographics, e.g., the Sea Cadets who only work with children.
Sports clubs may be eligible for discount through hosting/facilitating access for another club, for example a facility managed by a private school might host a charity and be entitled to a higher discount. This should be discussed with the PLA.
Total Discount
45%
Qualifying Criteria
All clubs are eligible to receive a 45% discount as standard.
We require all clubs to:
- Operate safely, following the PLA byelaws, rules of navigation and the Tideway Code.
- Be environmentally responsible, meaning that the club avoids pollution and environmental harm.
- Have valid insurance which covers all activities of their members and activity delivered by the club.
Total Discount
60%
Qualifying Criteria
To qualify for Silver discount sports clubs are required to:
- Meet the requirements set within the Bronze tier.
- Be affiliated to/members of their National Governing Body or provide documents that show: Club Constitution, Health and Safety Policy, Risk Assessment, Safeguarding Policy, Equality Policy, Club Rules and the provision of an AGM.
- Publicly state how they support club membership for people facing financial hardship.
- Deliver open sports activities on an average of a monthly basis between March and November. We request a minimum of 10 open sessions. Examples include taster sessions, courses or open days.
- Promote the above open sports activities through Open Active* digital platforms.
- Charges for open sports activities must be appropriate and affordable to the local community.
- Be open to the whole community**, as defined within CASC guidance.
Total Discount
75%
Qualifying Criteria
To qualify for Gold discount sports clubs are required to:
- Meet the requirements set within the Silver tier.
- Meet the requirements of a charity/CASC/CIC.
- Deliver targeted outreach programmes throughout the majority of the year.
Total Discount
100%
Qualifying Criteria
To qualify for Platinum discount sports clubs are required to:
- Meet the requirements set within the Gold tier.
- Have the primary purpose of providing sport and leisure for disadvantaged communities.
- Be registered as a charity with the Charities Commission.
- Be focused on community outreach – not performance sport or activities for members only.
- Any income generated through non-sporting activities must be reinvested to achieve the charitable aims, and no owner or shareholders may benefit from the delivery of charitable activities.
Process
Sports clubs wishing to apply to the PLA for consideration or renewal of their discount will need to do so every three years by completing the application form. Applications for the upcoming discount period must be submitted by 31 December 2024, with discounts taking effect from January 2025.
From January 2025 onwards, clubs are welcome to submit an application at any time of the year. The discount, if applied, will be applied from the next relevant licence fee review date unless agreed otherwise.
The Port of London Authority awards £50,000 to support local river clean-ups and the transition to Net Zero
The Port of London Authority (PLA) has today invested £50,000 into six community projects, including £17,500 for two initiatives supporting citizen scientists to detect pollution in the river and a £13,500 scheme to tackle ‘range anxiety’ for those running electric boats by installing a new river vessel charging point in Hammersmith.
The PLA’s Thames Environment Fund – now in its fourth year – invites community groups and academics to put forward innovative ideas to help protect and improve the River Thames.
Funding of £2,490 will help track eel migration from the Kent Marshes into the River Thames and £9,059 will support the restoration of Deptford Creek.
The Furnivall Sculling club has been awarded £7,500 to replace two petrol boats with electric boats and add a charging point, helping to cut emissions and support efforts to decarbonise the river.
PLA Director of Sustainability Grace Rawnsley said:
“We want to see a clean, healthy, thriving River Thames. We understand the valuable contribution residents and experts can offer, and we’re committed to supporting innovative projects that will revitalise and enhance the river’s natural environment.”
The PLA’s Thames Environment Fund is an annual program that has awarded a total of £114,000 to 20 community environmental projects over the last four years.
The PLA has vision for a clean river, free of sewage, waste and other pollution, supporting greater biodiversity and recreational use. As set out in the PLA’s Net Zero River Plan, we aim to decarbonise the River Thames by 2040.
Electric Thames with PLA Secures Major Funding Boost to Decarbonise the River
A ground-breaking project to decarbonise the River Thames and bolster London’s energy network has secured a significant funding award from the UK Government’s Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF).
After successfully completing Discovery in May 2024, demonstrating the potential for electric vessels to balance London’s energy demand, the Electric Thames project has now received additional funding as part of Round 3 Alpha of Ofgem’s SIF competition.
The Port of London Authority (PLA) and ev.energy has partnered with the Electric Thames initiative, led by UK Power Networks, as it transitions to the next phase of the project. Maritime energy transition specialist Marine Zero, and energy transition consultants LCP Delta will continue to deliver the maritime and energy modelling elements of the project.
The Electric Thames project seeks to transform the River Thames into a dynamic energy asset by enabling electric vessels to store surplus renewable energy—such as wind and solar power—when it is abundant and cost-effective. This stored energy could be returned to the grid during peak demand, increasing London’s flexible energy capacity and advancing the capital’s Net Zero ambitions.
Alpha got underway on 1 October 2024 and is focusing on mapping current and future energy requirements for different vessel types operating on the Thames. The team will explore scalable solutions and potential pathways for adoption across the broader UK market, laying the foundation for widespread implementation.
Andy Hurley, Operations Director at Marine Zero, said:
“We are thrilled to welcome the Port of London Authority and ev.energy to the Electric Thames project team. Together with our partners LCP Delta and UK Power Networks, we are now positioned to deepen our understanding of the operational requirements and key adjustments needed to make zero-emission vessels a viable option for Thames operators.
"Our primary focus during Alpha is to examine the financial implications and benefits of transitioning to cleaner operations. By establishing resilient and sustainable financial models, we aim to provide operators with practical and clear pathways towards adopting zero-emission solutions for vessel and quay operators.”
Grace Rawnsley, Director of Sustainability and Net Zero Transition at the Port of London Authority said:
“Having supported the Electric Thames project in its early days, we are delighted to be joining as a formal partner. At the PLA we care for, champion, and celebrate the river, so it is a natural fit to join with a project which brings innovation and environmental ambition together, helping towards our vision of the River Thames becoming net zero.”
Phillip Twiddy, Senior Consultant, LCP Delta added:
“We previously showed that there is a huge level of interest from operators in decarbonising vessels and operations on the Thames, and there is a significant benefit to be gained from a well-managed transition. We’re looking forward to working with the marine, energy, and investment sectors to develop economic solutions to enable decarbonisation of the Thames and rivers throughout GB.”
Luca Grella, Head of Innovation at UK Power Networks, said:
“The Thames has been the lifeblood of London for thousands of years, so it is exciting to be laying the foundations for it to enter the age of green energy. Our aim is to create a blueprint that could revolutionise maritime transportation, and be scalable across the UK and beyond.”
As the Electric Thames project moves forward it is poised to play a crucial role in the Port of London Authority’s Net Zero transition and support London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s ambition for a Net Zero Carbon London by 2030. The project will also offer a scalable blueprint for decarbonising the UK’s extensive network of rivers and inland waterways.
Jonson Cox and Sir Philip Jones reappointed to the Board of the UK’s biggest port, the Port of London Authority
The Secretary of State for Transport has confirmed that Jonson Cox CBE, Non-Executive Chair, and Admiral Sir Philip Jones GCB DL, Non-Executive Director, have been appointed to the Board of the Port of London Authority (PLA) for second terms.
Jonson and Sir Philip’s second terms will begin on 4 April 2025, each for a further three years.
Jonson Cox CBE, said:
“I am delighted to be reappointed as Non-Executive Chair of the Board and for Sir Philip to be joining me for a second term. I am proud of the focus the PLA brings to navigational safety, cleaning up the Thames, building economic growth and resilience, and investing in communities and businesses. I look forward to delivering even more progress on our ambitious Thames Vision strategy and cementing the Port of London’s position as the UK’s leading port, Net Zero by 2040.”
Port of London Authority supports and is driving action for clean water
Port of London Authority (PLA) Director of Sustainability Grace Rawnsley said:
“Our vision is of a clean river – free of sewage, pollution and rubbish – and we support all efforts to clean up, protect and enhance the tidal Thames.
“As set out in PLA’s Thames Vision 2050 and recently published The Clean Thames Manifesto, we are working with regulators and water companies to reduce their sewage discharges. We have secured initial commitments from the water companies but welcome more ambitious targets and immediate action.
“Our river users, those who live and work along the river, and all our communities deserve a clean Thames free from pollution.”
PLA releases first batch of new mudlark permits
The Port of London Authority (PLA) has today issued invitations to the first 200 people on the waiting list to receive a foreshore permit, enabling them to mudlark along the River Thames in central London.
This follows the PLA’s announcement (2 October) of new measures to protect the foreshore of the Thames, London’s longest archaeological site, having worked with the Museum of London, Historic England and the Crown Estate to develop a fair, sustainable approach.
The interest in mudlarking and the increase in outdoor activities that grew during the pandemic led to the number of applications for foreshore permits to rise from around 200 in 2019 to over 5,000 in 2022. As a result of this growth, and to protect the river and people using the river, the PLA paused the scheme and undertook a substantive review.
Since announcing the new scheme, the PLA has received almost 10,000 applications for a new permit.
James Trimmer, the PLA’s Director of Planning and Development, said:
“In so many ways the River Thames is a treasure and we have an obligation to protect its history and heritage. Part of that means safely managing the access mudlarkers have to the river. In the last five years we have seen interest soar to almost 10,000 people wanting to take to the Thames’ foreshore to mudlark. This highlights the importance of our new approach to control access in a fair and open way so a wider group of people have the opportunity to mudlark, while protecting the river and those who use it.”
The next release of foreshore permits will be made in early 2025. Foreshore permits will be valid for one year from the date of issue, with the intention of being more equitable and allowing a greater number of people having the opportunity to mudlark safely.
Those without a permit can still search for official guided tours, from companies such as Thames Explorer Trust. The PLA also supports London Museum’s ‘Secret of the Thames’ exhibition, which will open in April 2025, and showcase many of the most incredible finds, deeply connected to the history of the river.
Simon Clarke, Thames Explorer Trust, said:
“The new Foreshore Permit scheme means that a new generation will be able to establish a personal relationship with the river and its history. Thames Explorer is proud to have developed and maintained an artefacts policy through which we discourage the removal of common finds and encourage the reporting of finds of significance.”
For further information about the Foreshore Permit scheme, please visit our Thames Foreshore Permits page.
For more information, visit:
First Clean Thames Challenge is a success
Following the conclusion of the Port of London Authority (PLA)’s first ever Clean Thames Challenge, we are delighted to announce the results from the 154 people who participated in the month-long event. Together, they recovered an impressive 3,063 items from the riverbanks, including 549 plastic bottles.
As PLA’s Water Quality Technical Advisor, Emily McLean said:
“Our volunteers have worked tirelessly over the course of September, with over 100 free litter kits provided to help them in their mission. This collective effort highlights the vital role community action plays in protecting our waterways and creating a cleaner, healthier Thames for all.”
As part of the PLA’s strategy for the Thames, Thames Vision 2050, we are working towards a clean Thames, free of sewage, waste and pollution, which supports nature and recreational use. The Clean Thames Challenge invited people to make a real difference by choosing a challenge throughout September and sharing their results with the PLA. As well as useful information and safety advice, the PLA provided 106 free litter kits to participants, which included a litter picker and Hi-Viz jacket. There were also eight events that participants could join during the month.
The PLA’s Environment team works in partnership with many organisations to accelerate the progress towards a cleaner river. The success of this inaugural Clean Thames Challenge means that we plan to run this event annually. If you want to find out more about helping to collect litter - visit our Cleaning the Thames website or contact Thames21 to join an organised event.
For more information on the PLA’s strategy to a cleaner river, read our Clean Thames Plan.
Supportive quotes from partner organisations:
Paul Hyman, Founder and Director, Active360
“The Clean Thames Challenge has been a really sound initiative and a sign of how the PLA have taken a lead on reducing and moving towards eliminating plastic pollution in the Tideway.
“We were very pleased to be involved through our Paddle and Pick event as part of Tidefest and I’m hoping that the Challenge will be back next year.
“These events are important to increase awareness of what’s happening to the river and to encourage more people to step up to protect this unique ecosystem. We run many clean ups with businesses and individuals but combining forces through a scheme like this raises the profile to many more people.”
Harry Whelan, Director, London Kayak Company
“Operating on the tidal Thames, the London Kayak Company is fully behind the Clean Thames Challenge.
“We kayak people right through one of the most iconic rivers in the world and so we can see firsthand that the wildlife deserves a much better environment and a cleaner river.”
Chris Coode, CEO, Thames21
“Litter has no place in the River Thames or its tributaries. They deserve better.
"The Clean Thames Challenge has empowered local residents and groups tackle the problem directly and play an active role in safeguarding the River Thames—the lifeblood of London.
"Rivers can collect land-based litter and carry it to the oceans where it will continue to create problems for people and wildlife.
"Tackling plastic pollution in our rivers requires more than a single solution. We advocate for coordinated action across multiple sectors. Policymakers, manufacturers, retailers, brands, and the public must unite to address this pressing issue."
Adrian Evans, Director, Thames Festival Trust
“The PLA’s Clean Thames Challenge has been an important part of this year’s Totally Thames festival, raising awareness of river pollution and encouraging Londoners to roll-up their sleeves and their bit for a cleaner, healthier river for everyone to enjoy. Let’s make this an annual initiative!”
Wendy Tobitt, Chair, Thames Path Partnership
“The Thames Path Partnership supports the PLA’s Clean Thames Challenge, because we all want to see a cleaner Thames in London.
“The Clean Thames Challenge gives people who run, walk and cycle along the Thames Path National Trail in London the chance to look after the river by helping clear the foreshore of litter. Thank you to everyone who took part this year.”
Four New Trainee Pilots Welcomed Onboard at the Port of London Authority
Photo: Michail Kapellos, Neil Topping, Jake Bryan, Gavin Trotter
The Port of London Authority (PLA) is pleased to announce the addition of four new Trainee Pilots to its team, reinforcing the commitment to ensuring the safe and efficient navigation of vessels on the iconic River Thames. This intake is part of the PLA’s ongoing efforts to bolster its pilotage service, which is critical to supporting trade and maintaining the Thames as a vital commercial waterway.
The new recruits, Gavin Trotter, Neil Topping, Jake Bryan and Michail Kapellos bring a wealth of maritime experience from diverse backgrounds within the shipping industry. Over the course of their rigorous training, they will develop the expertise required to safely guide vessels through the river’s busy and sometimes challenging waters.
Trainee Pilots at the PLA undergo an extensive training programme that includes practical experience on the river, simulator sessions and study for generic and local knowledge exams. This comprehensive training ensures they acquire the knowledge needed to handle the range of conditions and vessel types that pass through the Thames, one of the UK’s busiest waterways.
PLA Marine Pilotage Manager, Dave Newbury, commented:
"We are delighted to welcome our new Trainee Pilots and look forward to seeing them develop their skills. The role of a PLA Pilot is crucial and with more vessels, from large container ships to cruise liners, relying on expert guidance along the Thames, the role of a Pilot remains central to the river’s operations and safety.”
The introduction of the four trainees follows the PLA’s ongoing recruitment and investment in talent to meet increasing demands on the river.
