Thames Estuary - Neuconnect Cable Lay & Nearshore Works

This Notice supersedes and replaces L52-24, which is hereby cancelled.

Mariners are advised that the Neuconnect cable lay works have been completed.  

The attention of mariners is particularly drawn to UKHO Preliminary Notice 4461 (P) / 23 (week 48, publication date 30/11/2023), which indicates the track of the Neuconnect cable; and to any subsequent corrections (whether permanent or temporary / preliminary) in relation to the Neuconnect cable; or new chart editions which may be issued by UKHO.  

As with any submarine cable, mariners are cautioned against anchoring, trawling or otherwise interacting with the seabed in the vicinity of the cable track. The cable is not considered to pose a hazard to conventional surface navigation.  

Guard vessels, engaged by the cable contractor, may be on station along the cable track from time to time. Their role is to monitor for vessels posing a risk to the cable by seabed interface and to pass appropriate warnings. They will not intervene in case of routine surface navigation in the area.  

Various works, including surveys and landfall reinstatement works, are in progress and/or may be undertaken along the track of the cable, including where it passes over the drying areas and is landed ashore. In particular, works in the drying zone may be resumed on a larger scale in April 2025.  

Various vessels, plant and personnel may be engaged in these works; any vessels are expected to display appropriate lights and shapes in accordance with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (IRPCS) and local regulations. Masters of vessels intending to navigate in the vicinity of the cable track are advised to exercise caution. Information will be broadcast as necessary by London VTS.  

Further PLA Notices to Mariners may be issued for any of these works as may be deemed necessary. Mariners are also advised to monitor Notices to Mariners which may be issued by Medway Ports Authority relating to Neuconnect-related works taking place in their area of responsibility. 

This Notice will remain published until this information is considered adequately promulgated; at that time, this Notice will be withdrawn without further communication.