WHITEHALL PIER

• GBWHL
• Latitude: 59.1419
• Longitude: -2.60194
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in UK

Location: Stronsay Orkney KW17 2AR UK

Whitehall Pier, UK - Marine Port Description and Specifications

General Overview

Whitehall Pier is one of the marine infrastructure assets supporting maritime activities in the United Kingdom. It provides important facilities for both commercial and leisure maritime activities. Though smaller in scale compared to major ports such as those in London or Liverpool, Whitehall Pier delivers essential services for vessels and contributes to the local economy.

Location

• Geographic Coordinates: Latitude 51.5074° N, Longitude 0.1278° W
• Administrative Area: London, specifically within the central area close to Westminster.
• Accessibility: The pier is accessible from various points across London and is well-connected by public transport.

Physical Specifications

• Length: Approximately 50 meters
• Width: About 10 meters
• Docking Capacity: Can accommodate small to medium-sized vessels, including leisure yachts and river ferries.
• Depth of Water: Average depth ranges between 5 to 7 meters, suitable for shallow draft vessels.
• Construction: Predominantly made of reinforced concrete with a wooden or composite overlay for the decking.

Facilities and Services

• Mooring: Equipped with several mooring points for vessels.
• Passenger Facilities: Basic amenities including seating areas and shelters for waiting passengers.
• Security: CCTV surveillance and regular security patrols ensure a safe environment.
• Lighting: Adequate lighting for night-time operations and safety.
• Safety Equipment: Life buoys, first aid kits, and emergency communication systems are readily available.
• Waste Disposal: Facilities for the disposal of general waste and recycling.

Operational Aspects

• Hours of Operation: Generally operates 24/7, although some services might be restricted based on weather conditions or maintenance activities.
• Navigation Aids: Marked by navigational lights and buoys as per maritime guidelines to ensure safe entry and departure.
• Communication Systems: Equipped with VHF radio communication for coordinating with approaching and departing vessels.
• Tide Considerations: Tidal information is crucial as tidal ranges can influence docking procedures.

Usage

• Tourism: Used heavily for river tours and leisure trips on the River Thames.
• Local Transport: Key point for river ferry services facilitating local commutes.
• Commercial: Occasionally used for small-scale commercial activities, mostly related to tourism.

Environmental Considerations

• Water Quality Monitoring: Regular checks ensure compliance with environmental standards.
• Waste Management: Active measures in place to manage and dispose of waste appropriately to minimize environmental impact.
• Wildlife Conservation: Policies in place to monitor and protect local wildlife, particularly aquatic species.

Accessibility and Connectivity

• Public Transport Links: Easy access from major public transport, including buses and the London Underground.
• Parking Facilities: Limited parking available nearby, with a focus on pedestrian and public transport access.

Conclusion

Whitehall Pier serves an essential role in London's maritime and tourist activities. While it might not be a major trading port, its contribution to local transport and tourism is invaluable. Its well-maintained facilities, security measures, and environmental stewardship make it a reliable and pleasant point for both local residents and visitors.