Environment Agency Thames Barrier Closures Commencing 1st November 2024

The Thames Flood Barrier will be closed once a month for test purposes, in accordance with a programme issued for a period of six months, commencing 07 November 2024. Listed below are the times between which the Thames Barrier will be closed to navigation for test purposes. During these periods’ navigation in the Thames Barrier Control Zone, between Margaretness and Blackwall Point, will be restricted and any movements in this area will require permission from London VTS. 

*All times are approximate. 

The closures will be confirmed and promulgated by London VTS from 24 hours in advance of the operation by VHF radio on routine river broadcasts.  

From the start of each closing procedure until completion of the opening procedure vessels will be prohibited from transiting the Thames Barrier. Most closures are for approximately 2½ hours over the respective low waters.  

No vessel is to pass Margaretness inward bound or Blackwall Point outward bound once a Thames Barrier closure has commenced unless authorised by London VTS.  

GATE CLOSURES  

In addition to the full Thames Barrier closures there will be frequent closures of individual gates for maintenance and training purposes, subject to a programme issued by the Environment Agency. The closure of individual gates will change the spans available for navigation.   

Information regarding these gate closures will be promulgated by London VTS on VHF Channel 14 routine river broadcasts.    

A copy of the six-month programme may be obtained by applying in writing to:

Environment Agency, Thames Barrier

Eastmoor Street

London 

SE7 8LX.  

During each full Thames Barrier or individual gate closure(s), illuminated red crosses will be displayed on both sides of the gate(s) indicating that the gate(s) are closed to navigation:  

NOTES:  

1. ANY ADDITIONAL THAMES BARRIER CLOSURES FOR TEST PURPOSES WILL BE PROMULGATED BY SEPARATE NOTICES TO MARINERS ISSUED 28 DAYS IN ADVANCE OF SUCH CLOSURES.   
2. THE BARKING BARRIER WILL BE CLOSED AT THE SAME TIME AS THE THAMES BARRIER.