Thames Barrier

Thames Barrier
View of the barrier gates, which are closed when a high tide is forecast
CountryUnited Kingdom
LocationLondon
Coordinates51°29′49″N 0°2′12″E / 51.49694°N 0.03667°E / 51.49694; 0.03667
PurposeFlood control
StatusOperational
Construction began1974; 50 years ago (1974)
Opening date8 May 1984; 40 years ago (1984-05-08)
Construction cost£534 million
Built by
Operator(s)Environment Agency
Dam and spillways
Type of damBarrage
ImpoundsRiver Thames
Height (thalweg)20.1 metres
Length520 metres
Turbines0
Website
GOV.UK page

Far view of the River Thames Flood Barrier

The Thames Barrier is a retractable barrier system built to protect the floodplain of most of Greater London from exceptionally high tides and storm surges moving up from the North Sea. It has been operational since 1982. When needed, it is closed (raised) during high tide; at low tide, it can be opened to restore the river's flow towards the sea. Built about 2 miles (3.2 kilometres) east of the Isle of Dogs, its northern bank is in Silvertown in the London Borough of Newham and its southern bank is in the New Charlton area of the Royal Borough of Greenwich.