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RLSS UK is currently working with Barking Riverside London, which is developing a new neighbourhood for East London. Located along the banks of the River Thames and covering 443 acres, Barking Riverside will include 10,800 new homes, schools as well as retail, community, leisure and healthcare facilities. There are also plans for large open spaces, public squares and a new rail station with bus and river transport interchange.

Sarah McCready, Head of Communications and Placemaking at Barking Riverside London said:

“Barking Riverside is proud to be an official accredited ‘RLSS UK Water Safety Partner’, it recognises our proactive pursuit of best practice in water safety management by taking an innovative approach to promoting high standards of aquatic safety. It is an excellent opportunity to educate and inform residents about the possible dangers of the river as well as the health and wellbeing advantages of living near one of the most iconic rivers in the world.

As well as seeking to provide training and development opportunities for local residents, we’ll work with the RLSS UK to maximise use of the river at Barking Riverside – throughout the lifecycle of the project.”

In the short-term, immediate water-based risks may be managed through the implementation of controls already identified in the existing River Safety risk assessment, but over the longer-term, as new phases of the development come on board, a more detailed and comprehensive approach is required.

“The team at Barking Riverside aims to implement a meaningful, creative and engaging Water Safety Management Plan to safeguard those who work, live and play around the water’s edge. This will go beyond `tick box’ signage and rescue equipment controls which, whilst providing reactive control, do little to nurture a healthy respect for the water amongst those who may be at greatest risk, which is the foundation of intelligent, preventative water safety,” says Damian Hall, Senior Consultant at RLSS UK.

The Water Safety Management Plan also identifies and works with a wide range of stakeholders such as constructors, local schools, community groups and the emergency services.

“The plan presents Barking Riverside with an opportunity to safeguard employees, residents and visitors, meet industry standards and regulations and also reflects vibrant, best practice in the way it is implemented, setting the standard for other developers,” says Hall.

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