New patrol boats for Thames
A new radical design of fast low-wash patrol launch has been ordered by the Port of London Authority (PLA) to increase its river community liaison role. PLA launches patrol the river daily, assisting river users whilst also overseeing river functions such as rowing and sailing regattas etc, as well as providing emergency support.
Operational from September 2006, the new boats will patrol the Thames between Putney and Teddington, enabling the PLA to deliver further improvements in maintaining high safety standards in the upper tidal Thames.
Designed with an open deck; a central ‘island wheelhouse’; and a platform at the rear, the layout allows the crew to have closer communication with rowers, canoeists and others in small leisure craft. The new boats will also help with the management of regatta safety and other river duties.
The PLA has signed a contract with Ecocats Limited to build two new patrol launches. The novel hull design will allow routine patrolling and, when necessary, high speed response to be made with a substantial reduction in ‘wash’ waves, compared to existing launches.
All aspects of the new launch design have taken conservation of the environment into consideration. Quite apart from their low wash characteristic, the new boats are very fuel efficient. Wherever possible, the materials used in construction are being obtained to ensure sustainable sourcing and recyclability.
Commenting, Richard Everitt, PLA chief executive said:
”We are seeing a major increase in recreational use of the Thames which we welcome. These new patrol boats have been specially designed to take account of the needs of leisure craft, in addition to other users including commercial and passenger vessels and houseboats. The new design will help our continuing steps to work closely with the rowing, sailing and motor boating community to promote safe and responsible recreational use of the Thames.”