The Port of London Authority (PLA) is the public body responsible for the governance and management of the tidal River Thames. Established by the Port of London Act 1908, the organization began its operations in 1909. It functions as a self-funding public trust, ensuring that the river remains a safe and navigable waterway for commercial and recreational traffic.
The jurisdiction of the PLA covers the Tideway, stretching from Teddington Lock to the outer estuary. Beyond managing vessel traffic and navigation, the authority is tasked with environmental stewardship and the protection of the river's ecosystem. By overseeing these diverse responsibilities, the PLA ensures the continued viability of the river as a major hub for trade and maritime activity in the United Kingdom.