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Development and Works - Studies Required

The following supplementary information may be required to enable a full assessment of proposed works.  This list is a guide and is not intended to be exhaustive.  Any supplementary information required will be determined on a case-by-case basis. 
It is important that the scope of all studies and surveys should be agreed with the PLA and any other relevant regulators.  Any studies which are carried out that do not meet the PLA’s requirements may need to be re-done.  Depending on the proposed works it may be necessary to consider the development itself and cumulative impacts.  It may also be necessary to undertake before and after studies.

Sufficient time should be allowed for the completion of any studies as the length of time it takes to complete each study varies depending on scale and impacts and can vary from a few days to a year.

Navigation Risk Assessment

A detailed study to identify any additional risks to navigation that the proposed works may create and identify mitigation measures that may be required.  Many navigational risk assessments will require a detailed assessment of the effect of the proposed work on river traffic using the PLA/BMT traffic model.

Hydrodynamic Modelling Study

A 2D hydrodynamic model will be sufficient for the majority of works.  There is a Thames 2D Base Model which may be used; other models are available.
In certain circumstances, if it is important to accurately predict local changes and in complex parts of the river, more detailed modelling will be required, for example 3D or physical modelling.

Ecological Assessment

A detailed study of the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of the riverbed at the site, the potential effects of the works, and a summary of mitigation measures and monitoring requirements.  The assessment should take account of seasonal changes in sensitivity.  The assessment may be a desk study but additional site-specific sampling may be required if insufficient data exists.
N.B. ‘Ecology’ comprises biological organisms living on and in the riverbed and fish.

Ornithological Assessment

A detailed study to determine the importance of the site for birds, the potential effects of the works on birds (including feeding, roosting and breeding behaviours), a summary of mitigation measures, and monitoring requirements.  The assessment may be a desk study but additional bird surveys may be required if insufficient data exists.

Cultural Heritage Desk Study

A detailed study of the heritage potential of the site, the potential effects of the works, a summary of mitigation measures, and monitoring requirements.

Operational Review

A detailed report of the use of the works and an assessment of how the use will affect the river or estuarine environment, including users and uses of the river.

Operational Environmental Management Plan

A detailed report of the vessels that will use the works, the intended maintenance regime for vessels moored at the works, and how waste at the works (including sewage) will be managed.