Hammersmith Bridge re-opens

From the PLA:

"You'll be pleased to know that from tomorrow (Friday 16th July) Hammersmith bridge will be going to a green arrow as per NtM U4 of 2021. Please can you let clubs know and ask them to take care as we return to normal operations. As previously transit through the bridge is at their own risk and if the light changes to red they'll be stuck until the bridge reopens."

In summary;

• The bridge control lights display two signals; green arrow and a red X
• The green arrow means the bridge is open and there are no restrictions
• The red X means that the bridge is closed to all traffic 
• If the signal changes to a Red X when any vessel is approaching the bridge, it should abort its transit and await further instruction from London VTS

The closed arch sign has also been removed over the Surrey arch (#3) but apparently the banner is still in place. The banner can be ignored as it is not a recognised navigation sign and all crews should navigate in the vicinity of Hammersmith Bridge in accordance with the Tideway Code.

Hammersmith and Fulham Council have also stated the bridge will be open to pedestrians and cyclists.
Hammersmith Bridge to re-open to pedestrians and cyclists this weekend | LBHF

Can I reiterate the comments from the PLA: When navigating please keep a very good lookout. Crews will be navigating reaches of the Tideway they haven't visited in a very long time and need to avoid shallows and other hazards.

Regards,

Antony Reynolds • Rowing Safety Adviser | Thames Regional Rowing Council