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Safe Boarding Week 2024 was the Port of London Authority (PLA)’s second, week-long safety initiative, aiming to increase awareness of safe access and highlight its importance on the 95 miles of the tidal Thames that it manages.
Safe access to and from a varied range of vessels on the Thames, which includes ladders onto ships, as well as ship to shore access at berths, terminals, jetties and piers, is a key concern for the PLA.
Inspired by Panama Canal Authority’s Safe Boarding Week, an annual event since the late 1980s, in 2023 the PLA initiated its own safety event, which aligns with our proactive approach to safety and safe boarding. This report provides a summary of our findings.
336 inspections carried out
During our last year’s campaign, we carried out a total of 265 inspections. This year we surpassed that by conducting a total of 336 inspections.
This chart shows a breakdown of the types of access arrangements that were inspected. The three main types in use were:
- Gangways: 23%
- Pilot Ladders: 32%
- Piers (step across access): 35%
The remaining 10% were either linkspans or other types of boarding arrangement, including quayside vertical ladders.
54 locations on the tidal Thames
On the left you can see a breakdown of our inspections by general location.
The blue bars show the number of inspections carried out by colleagues in the Chief Harbour Master’s management team and afloat staff (240) who visited commercial berths, piers, wharves and jetties.
The yellow bar depicts inspections conducted by our Pilots when boarding commercial vessels at Pilot Boarding areas in the Estuary and lower Thames (96).
76 gangways
80% of all gangways inspected1 were found to be compliant. The graph below depicts the areas checked when inspecting a gangway. The main issues encountered where that 30% did not have a safety net fitted correctly, whereas 16% did not have a lifebuoy nearby and 13% were missing signage showing the restrictions of safe use.
The condition of gangways was considered Satisfactory in the following areas:
- Overall cleanliness: 99%
- *Wires: 84%
- Stanchions/Hand holds: 99%
- Hand ropes/rails: 99%
- *Turntable: 100%
- *Lifting points: 100%
1% of gangways had issues with the condition of wires*, stanchions and hand ropes.
*Where applicable
1 It should be noted that this analysis reflects only the gangways inspected during Safe Boarding Week 2024. In the whole of 2023, 40 deficiencies were reported for this type of boarding arrangement.
Common issue with gangways
Safety nets rigged incorrectly
The Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers (COSWP) provides guidance to crew of vessels operating in UK waters. Chapter 22, Boarding Arrangements, Section 22.3 states that “where there is a risk of a person falling from the access equipment or from the quayside or ship’s deck adjacent to the access equipment, a safety net must be mounted where reasonably practicable.
“The aim of safety nets is to minimise the risk of injury arising from falling between the ship and the quay or falling onto the quay, deck or between two vessels. As far as is reasonably practicable, the whole length of the means of access should be covered. Safety nets should be securely rigged, with use being made of attachment points on the quayside where appropriate.“
It is a common misconception that gangways, with a net that wraps around the gangway and only covers the sides and bottom do not require a separate safety net. This net will not catch you if you fall off, that is why you need a safety net which is fitted around the entire length of the gangway.
109 Pilot ladders
92% of all pilot ladders inspected during Safe Boarding Week were found to be compliant with SOLAS (International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea regulations) standards.
Of the eight deficiencies, only two of our Pilots were able to identify the deficiency prior to boarding, while six stated that they only became aware of the deficiency once onboard.
Any non-compliance was reported in our Incident Management System and to the Maritime & Coastguard Agency.
Common issues with Pilot ladders
Pilot Ladders secured by shackles
Pilot ladders secured by shackles are a common deficiency. This is because, although Resolution A.1045(27) Section 2.1.1 of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) allows it: “The securing strong points, shackles, and securing ropes should be at least as strong as the side ropes”, it must be noted that the UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) has declared the use of shackles as non-compliant. When secured by shackles, the weight of the ladder is placed on the steps rather than the side ropes, so when the Pilot puts weight on the ladder, the ladder will move freely under the shackles until the next chocks and step has reached the shackles. This can cause serious injury to the Pilot.
Pilot ladders should be secured using rope lashings to a deck strong point using a rolling hitch or appropriate hitch to secure the side ropes. The strong point should be at a distance of not less than 915 mm measured horizontally from the ship’s side inwards.
Pilot Ladders secured by deck tongue
Although a common securing arrangement which may appear a simple solution to install and adjust a pilot ladder, this method is deemed non-compliant in the UK and dangerous for anyone who might have to use it. Applicable regulations:
ISO799-1(2019) states that: “each side rope shall have a breaking strength of at least 24kN and the diameter should be 18mm.”
ISO799-1(2019) states that “each step shall have a strength of at least 8,8 kN”
IMO1045(27) 2.1.1 “the securing points...shall be at least as strong as the side ropes”.
Therefore, each side rope can handle 2,400kg (4,800kg together) but each step can only handle a weight of 880kg. This means that by resting the entire weight of the ladder on just one step by using a deck tongue, puts a dangerous strain on the step which could cause it to break causing the ladder to fall. The strength of the deck tongue is often unknown. In most cases it is not tested or certificated either.
118 pier inspections
91% of all piers inspected were found to be compliant. The graph below depicts the areas checked when inspecting a pier or other location where embarkation/disembarkation is achieved by stepping onto/off the vessel. We are working with operators to address issues around access control, lighting and general condition.
25 other types of boarding arrangements
The other types of boarding arrangement included vertical quayside ladders providing direct access between the quay edge and the vessel. Out of 25 inspections carried out for this type of arrangement, two were found to be unsafe.
Both of these unsafe boarding arrangements were due to there being a large gap between the arrangement and the vessel, presenting a risk to crew and shoreside personnel of falling into the gap between the vessel and the berth edge.
Lifebuoys
One of the aspects of the inspection was to check the availability and condition of lifebuoys at the boarding points either onboard the vessels or on the berth. Here is a summary of what we found:
The condition of lifebuoys was considered satisfactory in the following areas:
- Signage: 92%
- General condition: 92%
- Buoyant line attached: 90%
- Reflective tape: 91%
- Location: 90%
- Easy to remove from storage position: 92%
Deficiencies in the condition of lifebuoys was generally due to exposure to weather.
Throughout the year, our aim is to produce safety campaigns highlighting best practice for the safe rigging of gangways and pilot ladders. We also aim to conduct another Safe Boarding Week next year where we hope to see a continued improvement on compliance.
“We would like to thank all the vessels, terminals, and berth operators who played a part in making Safe Boarding Week a success.
“Moving forward, we will be delivering safety campaigns and conducting liaison visits to highlight the lessons learned. This will help to make working on the Thames a safer environment for everyone involved."
James Stride
Chief Harbour Master
Captain Caz joins Port of London Authority Pilotage team
We are pleased to welcome Caroline ‘Caz’ Palmer to the pilotage team, as she embarks upon an intense six-month training programme which will equip her for the unique challenges of navigating the Thames.
Caz joins a 128-strong team of PLA Marine Pilots, safely guiding ships in and out of the port, around the clock, in all weathers.
Caz started her career in 2006 with Carnival UK. Once qualified she worked onboard cruise ships around the world before moving to the boutique Scottish based Hebridean Princess in 2014. There she worked her way through the senior ranks, becoming the first female Master of the company in 2022, sailing as Master thereon.
When not at sea with the Merchant Navy, Caz is an active member of the Sea Cadet Corps, currently based in West Kent. Whilst she instructs in several disciplines, seamanship is her passion.
A move into pilotage was the natural progression from Master and, already living in Kent meant that the Port of London was the ideal career move. Caz is enjoying her training so far and looking forward to becoming authorised.
Dave Newbury, PLA Marine Pilotage Manager said:
“We are thrilled to have Caz join the team, she brings a wealth of experience and great enthusiasm for the role.
“Expanding our pool of available talent means we will be able to maintain a resilient service for our customers and will also help expand the volume of freight delivered to this country by river.”
Caz Palmer, Trainee Pilot said:
“I am delighted with the opportunity to work in the PLA. It’s a role that feels like a natural progression from my seagoing career and I am excited for the challenges it will bring.”
In 2023, the PLA achieved a 99.6 per cent pilotage service level for customers, during which our pilots guided 13,707 vessels along the river and estuary.
Tidal Thames Water Safety Forum
Progress Report May 2019 - May 2023
In May 2019, the Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI), London Fire Brigade, HM Coastguard, Metropolitan Police Marine Unit, London Ambulance Service and the Port of London Authority came together to establish a water safety forum and publish a drowning prevention strategy for the tidal Thames. As partners, they work together to reduce the number of people who drown in the tidal Thames, either accidentally or deliberately.
Within two years, the forum expanded to include the City of London Corporation, Transport for London and the City of London Police. A second forum was established for Kent and Essex, bringing similar parties together to focus on drowning prevention in the lower Thames and Estuary.
Over the past four years the Tidal Thames Water Safety Forum (TTWSF) has worked on key projects and campaigns to improve safety along the river and raise awareness of the issues on the tidal Thames. A two year progress report was published in May 2021 and is available to view here. This report summarises the work the forum has completed over the past four years.
Objectives
Statistics
Objective 1
Raise the awareness of self-harm and accidental drownings on the Thames with key policy makers, stakeholders and the public.
PUBLIC RESCUE EQUIPMENT
The extent to which public rescue equipment is managed along the Thames varies between locations. When new developments are proposed near to the River the PLA makes representations to local planning authorities to secure the provision and maintenance of lifesaving equipment such as lifebuoys, grab chains and ladders by developers. The PLA also secures the provision and maintenance of life saving equipment through its river works licensing process.
The PLA conducted an extensive mapping exercise to identify locations of public rescue equipment and share this data through a publicly accessible GIS map. The aim is to work in conjunction with local authorities and landowners, to ensure that missing or defective equipment is replaced or repaired promptly. In total, 430,157m of river frontage was mapped.
A letter was sent from the forum to all local authorities along the River Thames in early 2023, highlighting best practice in the provision of public rescue equipment and providing key contacts and training options to support water safety. London Fire Brigade also contacted all boroughs, not just those on the Thames, reinforcing this message and encouraging local authorities to work with them to install appropriate public rescue equipment. See link to GIS map.
NATIONAL WATER SAFETY FORUM
The National Water Safety Forum is a UK-focused voluntary network, working together in order to reduce water-related deaths and associated harm. They have a calendar of water safety campaigns and events throughout the year, all of which are fully supported by members of the TTWSF through their individual social media channels, and through use of a shared regional hashtag #SaferThames. The Chair of the TTWSF is a member of the National Water Safety Forum inland waterways advisory group, which meets twice a year to share learning across the sector. Several of the TTWSF partners sit on other water safety advisory groups and attended the national water safety conference in Cardiff 2023.
TIME TO TALK
In 2008, Neil Laybourn stopped a stranger from taking his own life on a bridge in central London. This stranger was Jonny Benjamin MBE who, years later, found Neil and thanked him for saving his life. Since then, both Neil and Jonny have become leading advocates for mental health and co-founded the charity Beyond.
Neil worked with the PLA to produce a film, which was released on Time to Talk day (4 February 2021), encouraging the public, particularly men, to talk more openly about their mental health. It has had over 1,600 views to date. The film highlights the difference employers can make through having mental health first aiders, how colleagues can support one another during difficult times, and how the kindness of a stranger can make the difference between life or death.
Objective 2
Support the development and implementation of a programme to reduce the number of river-related suicide and self-harm drownings.
MENTAL HEALTH STREET TRIAGE
The emergency services are called to attend situations where individuals are threatening to take their own lives. Within the City of London, there are trained mental health practitioners on standby to accompany police officers when alerted to people in distress near the river. The practitioners are able to access digital care records at the scene and, through understanding the history of the individual, assess and treat the people involved more effectively at the scene and reduce repeat presentations.
In 2022, the City of London Corporation increased the number of hours of provision of the mental health street triage team, which supports individuals in crisis and supports the emergency service staff.
BRIDGE WATCH
Members of the public can be key to highlighting safety issues on the river. They might be the first to witness an incident and call 999, to flag something that doesn’t look right, or directly approach someone if they look as though they are in distress.
When researching suicide prevention programmes, technology and deterrents the TTWSF looked to learn from other areas known as suicide locations. Two intervention programmes came to the fore; Wexford Marine Watch and the Beachy Head chaplaincy team. Both programmes have teams of volunteers patrolling locations known to be high risk areas and have successfully intervened and helped people in crisis, saving lives. Emulating these programmes, Bridge Watch aims to provide a physical presence of teams of volunteers patrolling areas on and around the bridges of London, engaging with anybody that indicates intent to enter the water, or who might not be behaving safely. Christian-based charity Ascension Trust stepped up as a delivery partner to run this programme, and secured support for the roll out of Bridge Watch, thanks to funding from Bridge House Estates Trust. Once the volunteer manager and volunteers are recruited, the programme will roll out across the five City of London bridges.
GOODGYM
Thank you to GoodGym who, prior to the creation of Bridge Watch, responded to a request for help from the TTWSF during Covid lockdowns. Lockdown meant that streets and bridges on the Thames were very quiet without the usual footfall of pedestrians. Responding to a call to action for volunteers to patrol the riverside, GoodGym incorporated the Thames into their ‘Mission Runs’. Volunteers combined exercise with looking out for people in distress and over 70 mission runs were completed in February and March 2021. Although nobody came to the attention of the volunteers, it was reassuring to see that members of the public would volunteer to patrol the river.
Julia Shmotkina, GoodGym group operations, said: “We are really pleased to have supported the Safer Thames campaign through running, cycling, or walking by the Thames. Our mission is to combine doing good whilst getting fit, and I am very proud with the response of GoodGym members during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
TECHNOLOGY
There are five bridges in the City of London which provide essential crossings over the Thames. They are also a destination for tourists, and historic landmarks in British culture - several of the bridges are also listed structures.
The City of London Corporation and City of London Police work closely together on a wide-ranging public protection strategy including supporting vulnerable people presenting on City bridges. The Secure City Programme (SCP) is working to overhaul the City of London Police CCTV infrastructure and provide step-change improvements to situational awareness and emergency response capability. As part of the programme, SCP is in the process of assessing the effectiveness of a variety of technologies in order to improve situational awareness for the Police and other responders to support vulnerable people.
The application of technology in the City bridges environment is challenging and there are no straightforward examples of similar work being done elsewhere. The team have conducted a number of tests on a range of technologies, both within a controlled marine environment and on the River Thames, and evaluation of the findings continues. The next phase, scheduled to commence in Autumn 2023, will be to give recommendations for implementation.
THAMES SKILLS ACADEMY
The Thames Skills Academy (TSA) is a not-for-profit employer-led organisation established to raise safety standards and improve skills for everyone working on and alongside the Thames. TSA were awarded the Princess Royal training Award by the City & Guilds Foundation in 2021 for their outstanding skills and training development. The TSA work closely with the PLA to improve safety on the river Thames and were concerned to hear that many people living and working on or alongside the river come into contact with people in crisis. Caring for people’s skills development is at the core of the TSA, and they are very supportive of the TTWSF and support the delivery of the Drowning Prevention Strategy.
To help combat incidents on the river, the TSA have taken the lead in developing two excellent training courses, one on personal safety and the other on suicide intervention:
Suicide Intervention training
The TSA partnered with The Listening Place to create a half-day course focused on suicide intervention. The course equips people with the skills and confidence to initiate and manage a conversation with someone in distress and, where appropriate, connects them with further support. The TSA intend to support the rollout of this training over the next two years, thanks to funding from The Fishmongers’ Company, equipping over 300 people with the skills to support someone in distress.
Objective 3
Implement a robust, multi-layered programme to deliver education and water safety to targeted groups and events.
SAFE SPORT
Equipment for the increasingly popular sport of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is often sold without any accompanying safety advice. In response to a near-miss incident in Richmond, the PLA worked with delivery partners and British Canoeing to promote messaging on the appropriate use of leashes. Quick release waist leashes are the only suitable leash for tidal water, ankle leashes are not safe.
Crew on the PLA’s patrol boats regularly give out safety education advice to members of the public, and safety signs have been installed at popular paddling locations, encouraging river users to educate themselves on the river, correct equipment and clothing, and rules of navigation.
Objective 4
Continue to maintain and improve the Search and Rescue response to incidents on the river.
Coordinating search and rescue on the river, HM Coastguard work to ensure response times are as quick as possible. This is achieved through regular inter-agency debriefs and collaboration between partners and the regular review of emerging technology to ensure they are as effective as possible.
Objective 5
Ensure that safety is an intrinsic part of all future development.
RIVERSIDE PERSONAL SAFETY COURSE
The Thames Skills Academy developed a one-day experiential course which provides an overview of the potential dangers of working on or near water. The course offers practical tips to help people stay safe, should they or a colleague fall into the water. It is designed for people working on or alongside water and more than 1500 people across 60 companies have been trained so far. The aim for this training is that it is undertaken by everyone working on and alongside the Thames.
A SAFER RIVERSIDE
A Safer Riverside is a guidance document for riverside landowners, setting out expectations for water safety within planning applications. It gives specific consideration to bridges, riverside edges, piers and jetties.
Lucy Owen, PLA deputy director of planning and development, said: “Combining insight from multiple areas of expertise is the best way to make the river safer. This publication represents the consolidation of knowledge from all the relevant experts on how developers and planners can make the tidal Thames a safer place. We look forward to seeing it implemented within applications for a river works licence.”
Recommendations in the guide include adequate lighting and protected edges, to make accidental entries into the water less likely, and the installation and maintenance of public rescue equipment, such as grab chains and lifebuoys.
RIVERSIDE COMMUNITY WATER SAFETY
London’s population continues to grow, with more than ten million residents expected in the city by 2041. Launched in Drowning Prevention Week, our Riverside Community Water Safety Guide aims to educates those new to living or working by the tidal Thames. It advises on the dangers of the water, explains what to do in an emergency, and highlights where to find more information on how to enjoy the water safely.
EVENT ORGANISER GUIDANCE
As well as the written guidance for those organising an event on the tidal Thames, the PLA harbour master team provide their expertise to many organisations looking to run events on the river. Where notified and necessary, TTWSF partners attend events, expanding supervision along the tidal Thames.
Objective 6
Establish the River Thames as an independently identifiable risk area.
The Thames is now established as its own risk area in London via the Thames Resilience Panel. The panel meets twice a year providing an opportunity for members to meet their requirements under the Civil Contingencies Act, to cooperate and coordinate in relation to cross-border incidents related to the river Thames.
The top 11 risks have been identified, including self-harm drowning and accidental drowning, and the panel is working with its partners who include the RNLI, HM Coastguard, Metropolitan Police Service, London Fire Brigade, London Ambulance Service and Local Authorities, in assessing these risks.
WE ARE COMMITTED TO REDUCING THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE WHO DROWN IN THE TIDAL THAMES.
For more information on the work of the Tidal Thames Water Safety Forum please visit https://pla.co.uk/watersafety
Port of London Authority and partners launch Clean Thames Plan
L to R: Allison Ogden-Newton OBE (Keep Britain Tidy), Fazilette Khan (GreenSeas Trust), Alex Robinson (Hubbub), Paul Hyman (Active360/ In the Drink), Dame Jackie Doyle-Price MP (UK Parliament/ MP for Thurrock), Grace Rawnsley (PLA), Alex McGoran (CEFAS), Chris Coode (Thames21), Rachel Dulai (British Rowing), Alison Debney (ZSL), Robin Mortimer (PLA), Emily McLean (PLA).
In collaboration with over 30 river users, riparian councils and supporting stakeholders, the Port of London Authority (PLA) launched a Clean Thames Plan at an event in Parliament yesterday (22 April) to lay out achievable actions towards a clean river, free of sewage, waste and pollution, encouraging greater biodiversity and recreation.
In its role as a trust port, the PLA has made progress to reduce pollution in the tidal Thames through actions such as convening the Thames Litter Forum, removing up to 200 tonnes of rubbish each year from the river through its driftwood service, running public awareness campaigns and funding projects through its Thames Environment Fund.
Robin Mortimer, PLA’s Chief Executive, said:
“The fastest progress is made in partnership; our unique position as a trust port means that we’ve been able to galvanise wide support and set out achievable actions in the Clean Thames Plan in order to reach the ambitious vision that we have set for the tidal Thames.
“We all want a river that is clean, with a healthy ecosystem. Delivering on the ten priorities in this action plan will enable us to focus our shared efforts and resources and realise the ambition for the river that flows through our capital city.”
After hosting a roundtable discussion and showcase event to launch the Clean Thames Plan at the UK Parliament today (22 April), Dame Jackie Doyle-Price MP commented:
“Improving water quality is a pressing concern for everyone. I welcome the PLA’s efforts to draw attention to these important issues; injecting greater focus on key actions to remedy the situation, while shining a light on best practice up-and-down the tidal Thames.”
Working in partnership with stakeholders, the PLA has agreed ten priority areas towards a clean Thames, as follows:
- Seek opportunities for nature restoration
- Collect, use and share meaningful data and research
- Engage with the public to access, understand and value the river
- Create funding opportunities to enable innovation and technological development
- Partner with businesses to co-develop best management practices to reduce pollution
- Thames is an evidence-based exemplar for solutions to river pollution in the UK
- Combat pollution pathways into the river
- Co-produce holistic and enforceable legislation
- Understand the plastic lifecycle to tackle sources of litter
- Remove existing litter in the river
As part of our ongoing dedication as a Trust Port to preserve the tidal Thames the PLA, in collaboration with our partners, is launching the Clean Thames Plan to address all forms of pollution impacting the river.
Supporting quotes
Active360
“I’m pleased to support this plan as it sets out the work underway to make our river cleaner - and how it will be progressed. The Thames is an immensely important resource for Londoners as well as being the foundation on which the city was built.
“Pollution of all types devalues and degrades the river. We must keep making progress on cleaning it up and keeping it clean. This needs a broad partnership of scientists, official bodies, river users, activist groups and charities all working together.
“I have for many years enjoyed introducing people to the river as water sports participants and making them aware of its value on many levels and ways they can help to protect it. A cleaner river will encourage more people to use it, value it and protect it. I’m currently progressing this through Active360 and In The Drink and I’m pleased that both organisations are part of this Plan.”
Paul Hyman, Founder and Director, Active360 and In the Drink
British Plastics Federation
“The British Plastics Federation is pleased to continue supporting this project. Understanding the behaviour behind littering is essential as we move towards a circular economy, as no material should ultimately end up in the Thames or anywhere else in the natural environment.”
Lara Steinhobel, Sustainability Issues Executive, British Plastics Federation
British Rowing
"At British Rowing we welcome the PLA's Clean Thames Plan and look forward to working together to help create a clean and flourishing environment for our rowers and indeed everyone to enjoy every day."
Alastair Marks, CEO, British Rowing
Bywaters
“We're delighted to support the Clean Thames Plan due to their exceptional efforts in eradicating litter and pollution from the Thames. This partnership synergises with our own commitment to environmental preservation, as we jointly strive to create positive impacts and foster dynamic discussions in forums aimed at generating sustainable solutions.”
Rory Capper, Head of Sustainability and Innovation, Bywaters
DP World
“DP World is determined to play a leading role in the journey to net zero. We have a proven track record of collaboration with the PLA on clean water, such as the Passive Debris Collector on the Thames, so continuing our partnership via the Clean Thames Plan is the right move for our own and our customer’s sustainability ambitions.”
Helen Gray, Strategic Engagement and Marketing Manager at DP World
Gravesham Borough Council
“Gravesham and more specifically our towns of Gravesend and Northfleet and the nature filled open spaces of the North Kent marshes, have been intrinsically tied to the Thames throughout their history.
“The river is the lifeblood of the north of our borough; a constant in the life of local people whether it has been for work, play, pleasure, or leisure.
“We are proud of our place on a great waterway whose name is known worldwide, that is still an important trading route, and which has brought generations of visitors to our borough.
“For all of these reasons, we are fully supportive of our friends and partners at the PLA and this important strategy to ensure the Thames is a clean, welcoming and safe place for all.
“We will work to support them in meeting the objectives of the Clean Thames Strategy throughout its life, and beyond.”
Cllr Emma Morley, Cabinet Member for Operational Services, Gravesham Borough Council
GreenSeas Trust
"All rivers lead to the sea. At GreenSeas Trust we educate people with the BinForGreenSeas. While a recycling bin for PET plastics, it also acts as a visual educational tool. The three bins currently along the Thames collects between 3000-8000 PET bottles per month. We believe, working together to reduce pollution is key, which is why being a partner of the Clean Thames Plan is important to us."
Fazilette Khan, Founder Trustee, GreenSeas Trust
Hubbub
“At Hubbub, we’re delighted to support the Clean Thames Plan. It’s part for our commitment to collaboration in solving crucial environmental issues. We’ve worked to raise awareness of the importance of our rivers for several years, and to inspire people to take action to support clean, healthy waterways. The PLA’s Clean Thames Plan has a crucial role to play in the future of the river that flows through our city.”
Alex Robinson, CEO, Hubbub
Royal Holloway University of London
“Our work on plastic pollution and wet wipes in the Thames has highlighted the significant issues to be addressed to improve the river’s environment for all, including wildlife.”
“The plan provides an ambitious framework for tackling key priority areas through an integrated approach with strong partnerships. From engaging the public and schoolchildren, through generating first-class research to completion of the Thames Tideway Tunnel, the Thames should improve greatly by 2030.”
Professor Dave Morritt, from the Department of Biological Sciences at Royal Holloway University of London
Thames Estuary Partnership
“Estuaries are unsung heroes, vitally important for people and wildlife in so many ways. Our small, but integral local patch of ocean, the Thames, takes in pollution from our land and rivers which contributes to the global ocean challenge. We all have a part to play to ensure our mighty estuary is as healthy as it can be if it is to continue supporting our health, livelihoods and the diverse wildlife we share it with. This plan is the roadmap that can lead the way and we fully support the PLA and the Clean Thames partners in the great work they are doing to achieve a clearer future for communities and nature around the Thames.”
Amy Pryor, Technical Director, & Jesse Seaward, Head of Communications, Thames Estuary Partnership
Thames21
“Water quality and the health of rivers must improve. The main sources of pollution are agriculture and the water industry, plus a growing threat from plastics and forever chemicals. We all need to up our game to improve the health of our rivers.
“So, we are delighted to support the Clean Thames Plan and be involved with the partnership, as we realise that strong collaboration with key river stakeholders is the key to achieving transformative change at the scale and ambition that is required to meet our aims of improving the River Thames and its tributaries.
“The River Thames is the lifeblood of London. It’s an amazing natural environment to be celebrated, enjoyed and protected. We ultimately need everybody to commit to help to work hard for a clean River Thames for people and for wildlife.”
Chris Coode, Chief Executive, Thames21
Zoological Society of London
“Whilst we have seen significant progress in water quality through investment in infrastructure, there continues to be adverse pressures on the health of wildlife in the Thames including from impact of chemicals and the rising tide of plastics. The Clean Thames Action Plan will help us collectively tackle these threats so that we can achieve the shared ambition of the river’s water quality be consistently good enough to reach its wildlife potential and be safely enjoyed by people.”
Alison Debney, Conservation Lead, Wetland Ecosystem Restoration, ZSL
Clean Thames Plan
Priority action plan for a clean Thames (2024-2030)
Priority for the environment and communities
Our 2050 Vision is of a clean river, free of sewage, waste and other pollution, supporting greater biodiversity and recreational use.
Healthy rivers are central to biodiversity and to human health and well-being.
The tidal Thames is an iconic and critical part of London and the UK’s identity. The Thames also provides habitats for a range of wildlife, protection against flooding and a space for recreation and reflection. However figures from the Environment Agency show that along with 86% of England’s rivers, the tidal Thames is not meeting its water quality targets as set out in UK legislation and that adopted by the UK such as the Water Framework Directive [1]. Restoring water quality within rivers in the UK is a priority for both the environment and communities that live alongside them.
Since being declared biologically dead in 1957, the tidal Thames has made a considerable recovery. Investment in infrastructure has improved the quality of water allowing the Thames to be home to many protected sites that provide a range of diverse, thriving habitats for numerous species of fish, birds, seals and other animals. ZSL’s State of the Thames report shows that water quality in the tidal Thames continues to show promising improvements [2], but with the impacts of climate change clearly apparent, we need to continue this work to safeguard the tidal Thames for future generations.
As a connected river and estuary system, the tidal Thames is a complex ecosystem. Pollution enters the tidal Thames from many sources and often these sources are connected to one another. It is also possible that pollution entering the Thames is transported out into the North Sea further exacerbating the pollution problem in the marine environment. In order to meet the challenge of pollution reduction in a complex system, the Port of London Authority (PLA) works closely with a wide variety of partners and key stakeholders.
To begin holistically tackling this problem in 2014 the PLA convened the Thames Litter Forum. The forum was created with a range of organisations, including NGOs, local authorities and community groups to co-ordinate approaches to tackle litter in the Thames. In 2018, the Thames Litter Strategy was published by the PLA, as part of the Thames Vision, with the Litter Forum. The Strategy set out the context for future action on litter in the Thames and outlined the types of actions that the Thames Litter Forum would work towards over the following five years.
As part of our ongoing dedication as a Trust Port to preserve the tidal Thames the PLA, in collaboration with our partners, is launching the Clean Thames Plan to address all forms of pollution impacting the river.
Tackling the sources of pollution in the Thames
Progress on reducing litter in the Thames
Since launching the Thames Litter Strategy in 2018, there has been significant progress in research, policy and action for water quality along the Thames.
In alignment with key legislative and policy developments, including the Environment Act 2021, the 25 Year Environment Plan, South East Marine Plan 2021 and the Ban on Single Use Plastics in 2023, our strategy has gained substantial momentum. The strategy was divided into four strategic themes: baseline and evidence, combating pathways of litter, removal of existing litter and behavioural change. Together with Thames21, we have been monitoring the abundance and type of litter in the tidal Thames via our litter rapid appraisal surveys. Our goal was to achieve 75% of foreshore graded B (foreshore predominately free from litter) or higher by 2022, and on average between 2018 and 2022, we exceeded this target with 80% of the foreshore earning a B grade or higher.
The COVID-19 pandemic also led to an increased demand for single-use plastics that intensified pressure on river and marine systems. Studies have estimated that more than eight million tons of pandemic-associated plastic waste was generated globally, with more than 25,000 tons entering global oceans [3]. Meanwhile, more members of the public utilised their local green and blue spaces in the UK and built a stronger connection to the river and the wildlife that live within it.
The previous strategy and forum provided a valuable opportunity for partners to share information and lessons learnt in relation to tackling challenges related to inherited litter on the Thames. As we move forward, the PLA remains resolute in its mission to protect and preserve this vital waterway. Therefore, we are taking forward the partnership working approach in our new Clean Thames Plan to tackle the key sources of pollution in the Thames.
Progress on the Thames Litter Strategy actions
The Clean Thames Manifesto
Tackling sewage pollution through innovative collaboration with the water companies and regulators.
Pollution from storm overflows Combined Storm Overflows (CSOs) and discharges from sewage treatment works is our highest concern. We have been a strong supporter of the Thames Tideway Tunnel and have permitted and licenced its construction. Thames Water estimate a 95% reduction of storm water overflow discharge as a result of the project. We welcome the reduction in sewage discharges the tunnel will bring in London. However, we also expect to see water companies investing in more solutions to reduce sewage discharges.
In 2023, the PLA convened Thames Water, Anglian Water and Southern Water into an agreement to fast-track investment and reductions in sewage and storm water discharges from overflow points and treatment works in our Clean Thames Manifesto. This is a major step in the right direction and we are pleased to be working closely with the water companies and their regulators to go faster and further for the Thames.
We have secured the following commitments in our Clean Thames Manifesto:
Sewage outflows on the Thames by company
Our vision: A clean Thames
Reducing all forms of pollution in the river has been one of the PLA’s key priorities for many years.
In our role as a Trust Port, we have made progress to reduce pollution in the tidal Thames through actions such as convening the Thames Litter Forum, removing up to 200 tonnes of rubbish each year from the river through our driftwood service, running public awareness campaigns and funding projects through our Thames Environment Fund. However, we want to take this action further by strategically focusing our efforts to bridge the gaps in tackling pollution in the Thames and deliver more benefits to the river. In July 2023, the PLA convened stakeholders and partners from across the tidal Thames in a workshop to discuss how we can achieve the Thames Vision ambition of a Clean Thames. Through this workshop, all stakeholders agreed to ten priority areas for action.
Our vision: A clean Thames
In the Clean Thames Plan, the PLA have committed to delivering actions that will drive forward positive change to support the progress being achieved by our partners along the Thames. Through these actions, we aim to deliver further progress to achieve our vision of a Clean Thames.
The Clean Thames Partnership
Tackling the issue of pollution in the Thames requires holistic action from the many organisations and networks involved in, and already striving to improve water quality in the river.
Our partners have shared their priority work to improve water quality, that will be achieved by 2030, to meet our shared vision of a Clean Thames:
"The British Plastics Federation is pleased to continue supporting this project. Understanding the behaviour behind littering is essential as we move towards a circular economy, as no material should ultimately end up in the Thames or anywhere else in the natural environment."
British Plastics Federation
"We are happy to see the Clean Thames Plan published and we look forward to working with partners to create a better River Thames for people and wildlife through our role as a regulator and an advisor."
Environment Agency
"At British Rowing we welcome the PLA’s Clean Thames Plan and look forward to working together to help create a clean and flourishing environment for our rowers and indeed everyone to enjoy every day."
British Rowing
"Whilst we have seen significant progress in water quality through investment in infrastructure, there continues to be adverse pressures on the health of wildlife in the Thames including from impact of chemicals and the rising tide of plastics. The Clean Thames Action Plan will help us collectively tackle these threats so that we can achieve the shared ambition of the river’s water quality be consistently good enough to reach its wildlife potential and be safely enjoyed by people."
Zoological Society of London
"At the PLA, we want the river to be the cleanest it has been since the industrial revolution. But we know we can’t do it alone. The collaborative efforts of our partners and stakeholders who have participated in the development of this strategy are crucial and we extend our deep appreciation to all of you. A special mention and thanks to the Thames Litter Forum for their dedicated work and unwavering engagement in delivering the actions set out in the previous Thames Litter Strategy. Your commitment to this cause is truly commendable and invaluable to this vision. This new action plan stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and shared dedication. We look forward to achieving our joint vision for the river together."
Grace Rawnsley
Director of Sustainability and Net Zero Transition
[1] Environment Agency, “Environment Agency - Catchment Data Explorer,” environment.data.gov.uk, 2022. https://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning (accessed Sep. 2023).
[2] ZSL, “The State of the Thames 2021: Environmental trends of the Tidal Thames,” McCormick, H., Cox, T., Pecorelli, J., and Debney, A.J. (Eds), Regent’s Park, London, UK, 2021. Accessed: Sep. 07, 2023. [Online]. Available: https://cms.zsl.org/sites/default/files/2022-10/ZSL_TheStateoftheThamesReport_ Nov2021_0.pdf?_ga=2.266511502.1227659184.1694073430-1611245276.1694073429
[3] Y. Peng, P. Wu, A. T. Schartup, and Y. Zhang, “Plastic waste release caused by COVID-19 and its fate in the global ocean,” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, vol. 118, no. 47, Nov. 2021, doi: https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2111530118.
Terms and conditions for the purchase of goods and services
Riverside Code
NAABSA Berth Procedure
The NAABSA (Not Always Afloat But Safely Aground) Procedure provides guidance for Berth Operators, Agents, Ship Operators and vessel Masters in order to safely operate/use a NAABSA berth in the Port of London.
Berth operators wishing to operate as NAABSA will need to declare compliance with the requirements detailed in the NAABSA procedure. To do so, berth operators should complete the below NAABSA Berth Compliance Declaration form and submit to the Harbour Master ([email protected]) for review.
This declaration of compliance is valid for 12 months from the date indicated by the Harbour Master. The operator must submit a new declaration of compliance 30 days before the expiry date in writing to the Harbour Master.
Failure to renew the NAABSA status may result in delays and possible cancellations to vessel bookings.
NAABSA Berth Compliance Declaration form
Approved NAABSA Berths in the Port of London
| Berth name | NAABSA Status Expiry |
| Coldharbour Jetty | 04/02/2026 |
Marine Safety Plan Performance Report (2021-2023)
Explanatory note on VAT on houseboats and qualifying ships
Houseboats are exempt from VAT. However, a review by Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has determined that River Works Licences or Licences to Moor are not sufficient evidence to determine that they should be exempt.
Unless we can evidence a vessel is a houseboat, as defined by HMRC, then the PLA has to apply VAT on all future invoices.
Affected PLA licence holders were notified of this change by letter (March 2021).
What this means
The HMRC ruling is backdated for four years.
VAT will only be passed on to PLA licence holders from this year (2021/22), with a credit applied to the account of non-VAT registered licensees, to cover the first year’s additional charge.
We will pay the back-dated four years of VAT to HMRC.
Definitions
A houseboat is defined for the purposes of VAT as being a floating decked structure which:
- is designed, or adapted, for use solely as a place of permanent habitation.
- does not have the means of, and which is not capable of, being readily adapted for, self-propulsion.
We know that many houseboats registered with us don’t meet this definition.
More information is available on HMRC’s website.
“Qualifying ships”
A qualifying ship is zero rated for VAT, which means the VAT charge is zero.
We do not have any licences that specifically relate to “qualifying ships” in the category of people we have written to. These are legally-defined as any ship that has a gross tonnage of not less than 15 tons and is not designed, or adapted, for use for recreation or pleasure. They cannot be permanently moored, which is the case with licences used for residential uses.
“The intended use of a vessel does not affect qualifying ship status. The only factors to be considered are the gross tonnage, the design of the ship and any future adaptations”.
“Where a vessel is designed to be lived in as a permanent home by the owner, it may be treated as a qualifying ship, even though it might also be used for recreation or pleasure”.
“Motor cruisers, powerboats and yachts are designed or adapted for use for recreation or pleasure, so they do not qualify as ships, even if they’re 15 gross tons or over, or supplied for business use”.
-- Quote from HMRC Vat notice 744C.
If you think your residential vessel/houseboat is actually a “qualifying ship”, you need to check using the detailed guidance given in HMRC website.
What houseboat owners need to do
- Read the VAT notice; determine whether your vessel is a houseboat or not.
- If your vessel is a houseboat, sign the declaration and return it to us. We will check/verify the information and then issue a variation to your licence.
- If you wish to declare a qualifying ship, we will need to see evidence of the tonnage (merchant shipping registration or a marine surveyor letter) and ensure you can confirm that your vessel meets the other criteria to qualify.
Related Information:
