VTS Policy

In order to provide for safe navigation in the Thames, it is necessary to ensure that:

• an effective Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) operates throughout the port; and
• positive control of navigation is maintained in the vicinity of the Thames Flood Defence Barrier.

To this end it is Board policy that the PLA shall:

• Operate a 24-hour Vessel Traffic Service at the Gravesend PCC and Woolwich TBNC stations in accordance with its published Navigational Safety Policy;
• Provide a Traffic Information Service between the seaward limit of the VTS Area and Teddington Lock, a Traffic Organisation Service between the seaward limit of the VTS Area and London Bridge and a Navigational Assistance Service between the outer port limit and Greenwich;
• Maintain VHF communication with all vessels of over 13.7 metres in length within its area of responsibility;
• Seek to ensure that the PLA VTS system operates at 99.9% availability through a maintenance, procurement and installation strategy for VTS equipment, which will add to the reliability of individual elements of the VTS system or to its duplication;
• Review regularly the performance of the system and seek improvements through technical enhancement, staff development, training and effective management as necessary;
• Maintain standards for training and certification of VTS personnel in line with IALA recommendation V-103;
• Formally authorise all VTS personnel qualifying to the required IALA standard;
• Record all relevant radar video, VHF and telephone communications as an aid to enforcement and incident reconstruction and investigation; and
• Maintain comprehensive details and records of commercial vessel movements in the port.

25th August 2011