Pollution Problems in Relation to the Thames Barrier

Although the barrier, which is to be constructed about 15 km seawards of London Bridge, need only be closed to exclude exceptionally high tides to fulfil its primary function as a flood prevention device, its design is such that it could be operated as a tide-control structure, closing at a particular stage during each ebb and opening at a similar stage on the succeeding flood, unless a storm surge is forecast. This paper outlines a theoretical study, undertaken at the request of the Greater London Council, to assess the effect on the condition of the water of the Thames Estuary of operating the barrier on a regular basis in such a way as to prevent water levels landwards of it falling below Newlyn Datum.