The Barrier. Boats pass through the Barrier only on London VTS’s instructions, through the spans that are open, and the gates close for flood defence and for regular tests. We plan shoots around the closures and the PLA’s instructions.
The gates. The Barrier has ten steel gates: six that rotate up from the riverbed to close the navigation spans, and four smaller radial gates near the banks.
The light. The Barrier runs across the river from bank to bank, so its gates catch the morning sun from downriver and the evening sun from upriver.
Speed. Boats with a PLA Certificate of Compliance can go above 12 knots here, and just downriver, below Margaretness, the 12 knot limit ends altogether. Every boat still keeps to a safe speed.
On the water. Commercial filming on the tidal Thames needs permission from the Port of London Authority, and we apply for it as part of the job.
In the air. Inside London City Airport’s flight restriction zone, drones fly only with the airport’s agreement. We apply as soon as the shoot is booked.
On land. The Barrier, its park and the Royal Arsenal riverside have different owners, so filming on land needs their permission, separate from the river.
Thames BarrierWoolwich FerryYes. We film it from the water on both sides and can pass through it on London VTS’s instructions.
Closures are for flood defence and for tests, and boats cannot pass while they are on. We plan around them, and a closure can be part of the shot.
Only with London City Airport’s agreement, as the Barrier is inside its flight restriction zone. We apply well ahead.
At a point that suits the tide and the shoot, which we confirm with the call sheet.
