Severn Bridges Act 1992

29 Works affecting river Severn

(1) For the purpose of, or in connection with, the construction, maintenance or improvement of the new bridge, the Secretary of State may—

(a) temporarily interfere with the river Severn and, at any point in the river within the limits of land to be acquired, construct and maintain such temporary structures, and do such works, as he may consider necessary or expedient,

(b) temporarily moor or anchor barges or other vessels or craft in the river, or

(c) temporarily close the river, or a part of it, to navigation.

(2) The power conferred by subsection (1) above shall not be exercised in relation to any part of the river which is—

(a) outside the limits within which the Gloucester Harbour Trustees have authority at the passing of this Act, or

(b) upstream of the relevant inward limit.

(3) The Gloucester Harbour Trustees shall be consulted before the power conferred by subsection (1) above is exercised.

(4) The power conferred by subsection (1)(c) above shall be exercised in a way which secures—

(a) that no more of the river is closed to navigation at any time than is at that time necessary in the circumstances, and

(b) that, if complete closure of the river to navigation becomes necessary, all reasonable steps are taken to secure that the minimum obstruction, delay or interference is caused to vessels or craft which may be using or intending to use the river.

(5) No liability in respect of any loss suffered, or costs or expenses sustained, as a direct or indirect result of the exercise of the power conferred by subsection (1) above shall be incurred by the person by whom the power is exercised.