Hydrographic Policy

The safety of navigation is dependent upon the provision of relevant, up to date hydrographic information, delivered in a form most appropriate to each sector of the wide spectrum of port and river users.

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

• Undertake such hydrographic surveys as are necessary for safe and efficient navigation within port limits;
  
• Carry out a managed programme of hydrographic surveys of the bed of the Thames from the landward limit to the seaward limit and bounded by the Mean High Water line;
  
• Set and maintain programmes, standards and specifications for PLA hydrographic services, including the competency, training and continued professional development of appropriate personnel;
  
• Provide port and river users with up-to-date, timely and accurate hydrographic information, where appropriate, on a commercial basis;
  
• Provide continuous, timely and accurate tidal data;
  
• Maintain hydrographic and tidal information;
  
• Maintain a close liaison with, and provide relevant data to, the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office;
  
• Represent the PLA's hydrographic interests nationally and internationally.

01/04/03