This site is intended to provide a brief introduction to the public inquiry into the Port of London Authority’s proposed Harbour Revision Order. Find out more here.
In the news
21/3/25 – Private Eye – River Thames, Sea Change
17/3/25 – London Post – Liberal Democrats Call for End to Balcony Charge “Racket”
16/3/25 – BBC London Politics Live (starts at 2 minutes) with Simon Hughes
14/3/25 – PLA website – Update on fees for balconies overhanging the River Thames
12/3/25 – London Centric – River swimming and dead dogs: Who actually owns the Thames?
7/3/25 – Private Eye – Port in a Storm: Questions for the guardians of the Thames
Why a Public Inquiry?
The Port of London Authority (PLA), which is responsible for managing the River Thames in London (from Teddington Lock in West London all the way to the Dartford Crossing), has applied for a Harbour Revision Order (HRO). During the consultation a number of objections were raised. The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) decided to hold a public inquiry to address those objections.
The inquiry chair is Christopher Jacobs. See full programme here. The inquiry programme officer is Helen Wilson and you should contact her with any queries.
What’s the story?
The Port of London Authority applied for a Harbour Revision Order in 2021. During the consultation various objections were raised which resulted in the Amended Port of London Authority Harbour Revision Order (16 January 2024). Some of the objections have not been withdrawn hence the decision to hold a public inquiry.
The River Thames is the heart of London, where we live, walk, work, travel, and unwind. It’s more than just a river; it’s part of who we Londoners are. The Thames provides homes, transport, recreation, tourism, economic opportunities, and environmental benefits, while shaping the city’s history, culture, and daily life. Since the introduction of containerisation in the 1960s, the river in London has ceased to be a port. The serious business has moved downstream away from London. This raises the important question as to who should own, control and manage the vast area of the River Thames, which deserves to be recognised as one of London’s very greatest assets.
Who is objecting to the Harbour Revision Order (HRO)?
The objections come from a wide range of individuals and organisations, reflecting the many different roles that the river plays in our lives. Find out more on the River Residents website, an inclusive action group for individuals and communities who share a passion for the River Thames.
Who set up this website?
This website is run by Tower Bridge Yacht and Boat Company, owner of Tower Bridge Moorings and one of the objectors to the HRO. The aim is to provide a brief introduction to the public inquiry, and links to find more information, as many people have no idea it is happening, or why the proposed changes in the Harbour Revision Order are of significance.
If you would like to contribute any content to this website please email us.
Useful Links
Marine Management Organisation
Helen Wilson Consultancy Limited
River Residents Group Press Release
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