Transiting Richmond Lock & Weir

https://pla.co.uk/notices/SB7-...

ATTENTION: PADDLERS, ROWERS and RECREATIONAL VESSELS

Following recent incidents involving recreational vessels, including Paddlers, Rowers and Power-Driven-Vessels passing through Arch Closure signs at Richmond Lock and Weir, the PLA has identified a requirement to publish further guidance on the safe transit of Richmond Lock and Weir.

Richmond Lock and Weir, located on the River Thames between Teddington and Richmond is a structure which spans the full width of the river. It comprises a footbridge with five arches, boat rollers in Arch 1, a weir of three vertical steel sluice gates suspended from the footbridge in Arches 2, 3 & 4, and a lock in Arch 5.

WEIRS LOWERED

At approximately 2 hours after high water, until approximately 2 hours before high water, the weir gates are lowered into the water to maintain the water level up stream towards Teddington. Once the weir gates are in the water, the arches are blocked and no longer navigable by any vessel. For the safety of river users an Exclusion Zone and Restricted Area is implemented up and down river of the bridge, as shown on navigational charts.

When the weirs are lowered Power-Driven-Vessels shall use the lock in Arch 5, and Human-Powered-Vessel shall use the boat rollers in Arch 1.

WIER OPERATION

When the weir is operational, for example when the gates are in the water, or raising and lowering, there is a significant risk to life. This risk extends to any persons or vessel within the Exclusion Zone due to currents, eddies, undertows and rough water particularly on the downstream side of the weirs. On the upstream side of the weirs, the water may appear calm, however, this is where the greater danger lies.

ARCH CLOSURES

In accordance with Thames Bylaws and General Directions, when there is a hazard to rivers user, the Port of London Authority will close the arch to all navigation. This applies to all vessels, including Paddlers, Rowers and other Human-Powered-Vessels. An arch closure sign, as illustrated below, is indicated by three red discs in a triangle pointing downwards; at night this is shown by three red lights in the centre of the red disks.

For your own safety, and to comply with River Thames legislation, do not attempt to pass through any closed arches on the River Thames. The danger may not be obvious.