16 of 2009

Background
The names of operational cargo handling berths within the Port of London have, over the years, often changed with ownership.  This has resulted in many berths being referred to by several names, which inevitably leads to confusion amongst the various River users involved in and supporting marine operations.  There are also therefore, potential navigational safety issues associated with this confusion and uncertainty.

Definitive Berth Names
To ensure consistency and clarity, and to facilitate the safety of marine operations, the Port of London Authority (PLA) has taken the decision to stipulate a definitive list of operational berth names.  The list detailed below identifies all current operational cargo handling berths and tiers.

In order to ensure common usage, these names will be used and promulgated on PLA charts, in Notices to Mariners and in navigational information and broadcasts, as appropriate.  A change of facility operator will not usually be sufficient to change the definitive berth name used for the purposes of marine operations, and any such change will only be considered in exceptional circumstances and following discussion and agreement with the District Harbour Master.

Most definitive berth names are in long-standing and regular use.  However, there are several new names, an example of which is Grays Terminal 1 and 2, which have had many names over the years, including: Wouldhams, Gatx and Nu Star.

The new definitive berth names will be implemented from Monday 6 July 2009, from which date, Mariners and Agents are requested to use these berth names when ordering Pilots, Tugs and Boatmen, and in all references to associated marine operations and services.

The publication is issued free of charge (although the PLA reserves the right to charge for orders greater than 4).  Copies can be obtained from the PLA at the address below.

It is also available to be downloaded from the PLA’s website at www.pla.co.uk.