Barking Reach - Barking Barrier - Reduction in Air Draft & Demobilisation

This Notice supersedes and replaces M42-24, which is hereby cancelled.

On or about 6th May 2025, contractors working on behalf of Team 2100 will commence demobilisation works at the Barking Barrier, these works are expected to take place until approximately October 2025. Throughout the remainder of these works, the scaffolding across the top and access towers of the Barking Barrier will be slowly removed.   

Until fully removed, the scaffolding should be considered to reduce the available air draft by 3.1m. In accordance with Thames Byelaw 36, a fixed white light will be suspended from the scaffolded areas to indicate a reduced height. 

Further to this, Yokohama fenders are fitted on the inside of the barrier, thereby reducing the available width by 4m.  

At times, the scaffolding removal works will involve lifting operations over low water periods; from 2 hours after High Water until 2 hours after Low Water, both based on the Silvertown tide reading. During lifting operations, the guard boat BANDIT will be on station and monitoring VHF Channel 14. All other vessels should keep well clear during these times.  

Further details will be broadcast by London VTS on VHF Channel 14.