Policy information sourced from the Tower Hamlets Local Plan
D.OWS4 Water spaces
Development within or adjacent to the borough’s water spaces is required to demonstrate that:
- it does not result in loss or covering of the water space, unless it is a water-related or water-dependent use at appropriate locations and of appropriate scale
- there are no adverse impacts on the existing water spaces network, including navigation, biodiversity, water quality, visual amenity, character and heritage value of the water space, taking into consideration the adjacent land and the amenity of existing surrounding developments
- there are no unacceptable impacts on the openness of the water space
- it enhances the ecological, biodiversity and aesthetic quality of the water space, taking into account the design and landscaping of the adjacent land area, in line with the Tower Hamlets Local Biodiversity Action Plan and the European Union Water Framework Directive
- it does not have an adverse impact on other existing active water uses
- it will provide increased opportunities for continuous public access, use of the water space for water-related uses and sport and recreational activities
- it responds positively and sensitively to the setting of water space, while respecting and animating water space to improve usability and safety, and
- it provides suitable setbacks from water space edges to mitigate flood risk and to allow riverside walkways, canal towpaths and cycle paths, where appropriate. Where necessary, development should contribute to the restoration of the river walls and embankments.
Development within the Thames Policy Area (as shown on the Policies Map) is required to consider the guidance provided within the most up-to-date Thames River Basin Management Plan and the relevant Southeast Marine Plan, where applicable.
Development adjacent to the borough’s waterspaces is required to enhance the area’s links with the water space and contribute to the delivery of continuous walkways, canal towpaths and cycle paths (e.g. completion of the Thames Path).
Development of moorings will be considered acceptable at suitable locations, and where they do not cause any adverse impact on navigation, biodiversity, micro climate, amenity of surrounding residents and the public enjoyment of the water space.
For more information please see the Local Plan