The Port of London’s newly upgraded and modernised Control Centre was officially opened yesterday.
The Port Control Centre manages the movement of all ships arriving at and departing from London. Situated on the Thames at Gravesend, it provides the VTS (Vessel Traffic Services) system for the Port of London area, which includes the Thames Estuary, tracking ships on their voyages in and out of London, and enabling the PLA to offer navigational advice, weather and tidal information, and other vital safety guidance.
Key features of the upgrade include:
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Comprehensive update of computer software and equipment
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Improved layout and new display screens for operators
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New VHF radio arrangements
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Greater use of CCTV monitoring
The capabilities of the Port Control Centre are also now a key component in security arrangements for London. The latest enhancements integrate the Automated Identification System (AIS) within London's VTS system. All ships (over 300 gt) are required by the ISPS Code to carry AIS by December 31st, 2004.
According to Bruce Richardson, PLA chief harbour master, the Port of London Authority handles the movement of about 100 commercial ships each day. “The ability to monitor and track vessel traffic accurately and reliably is a fundamental component of navigational safety,” he said. “These enhancements to our Port Control Centre enable us to meet the known and anticipated challenges of the next decade.”
