The Port of London Authority launches new Foreshore “Mudlark” Permit scheme

The Port of London Authority (PLA) is reopening applications for new Standard Foreshore, or “Mudlark”, Permits, having reviewed and revised the scheme alongside the Crown Estate, Historic England and London Museum (formerly Museum of London Docklands).

Home to the UK’s largest port since Roman times, the tidal Thames and its foreshore represents London’s longest archaeological site. With finds dating back to 10,000 BCE, the PLA regulates searching on the foreshore to the west of the Thames Barrier, on both its own land and on behalf of the Crown Estate on its land. Applications for Foreshore Permits were suspended in 2022 due to the significant increase in demand for permits, the high number of permits already in circulation and the concerns over protection of this unique environment and its historic finds.

As James Trimmer, the PLA’s Director of Planning and Development, said:

“As owners and custodians of the tidal Thames foreshore, we have a duty to protect its integrity and archaeology for future generations. After an unprecedented increase in the application of Foreshore Permits, from about 200 foreshore permits issued in 2018/2019 to 5,000 in 2022, we undertook an extensive evaluation and revision of the scheme.  

“Our new scheme will enable people to get permits to search the foreshore safely, whilst continuing to preserve its unique history and heritage.”

The new Foreshore Permit scheme will limit the number of available Foreshore Permits to a maximum of 4,000, which will be valid for a year from the issue date. The autorenewal of permits has been removed to ensure that all who are interested will have the opportunity to apply for a permit. The cost of a standard, year-long Foreshore Permit will be £35.00. 

The waiting list for Standard Foreshore Permits will open at midday on Wednesday 2nd October 2024.

In response to feedback from stakeholders, the PLA will also launch a new Creative Foreshore Permit, to a maximum of 30 permits (at any one time), to allow the holders to use finds (of no monetary value and without any historical importance) in artworks or other creative endeavours, whether for sale, exhibition or for personal enjoyment. Anyone interested in obtaining this new permit should get in touch with the PLA via the email: [email protected]

The Terms and Conditions for permit holders and the PLA’s Code of Practice for searching the foreshore has also been updated, to provide guidance to ensure any activity is carried out in a safe and sustainable manner. As always, Foreshore Permit holders will be required to report any finds under the Portable Antiquities Scheme (www.finds.org.uk), which, in London, can be done through the London Museum.  

For detailed information, visit our webpage: https://pla.co.uk/thames-foreshore-permits 

For enquiries about Foreshore Permits, please email: [email protected]