Determination of vessel traffic capacity in Central London

Rawson, Andrew, David, Rogers, Edward and Towens, Mark (2016) Determination of vessel traffic capacity in Central London. International Harbour Masters Congress, , Vancouver, Canada. 30 May - 03 Jun 2016.

Abstract

The River Thames in Central London has seen a significant increase in vessel traffic activity over the last 10 years. With additional demand forecast and major infrastructure developments planned, it was necessary to conduct a strategic review of vessel capacity across the system. Traditional measures of capacity were found to be incompatible with this environment and so two new methodologies were developed. Firstly, the spatial utility of a navigation channel to handle vessels – " Level of Service " was analysed using vessel density and pier demand. Secondly, the capacity of a channel to operate safely-" Level of Safety "-was calculated by developing a risk model from assessed encounters between vessels. The identification and evaluation of potential measures aimed at increasing capacity was undertaken to develop specific recommendations to strategically manage the forecast growth in vessel traffic. By determining channel capacity through " Level of Service " and " Level of Safety " metrics, the study communicated the complexities of vessel traffic navigation in complex and busy waters. These two metrics are therefore paramount in assessing the safe capacity of navigation channels and can be applied to any channel worldwide.

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Contributors

Author: Andrew, David Rawson

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