As part of the Government commitment to the safety of life at sea (SOLAS) convention, and as directed by the Merchant Shipping Act 1995, NLB have responsibility for the superintendance and management of all lighthouses, buoys and beacons within Scottish and Manx waters, whether provided by NLB or other parties.
Further to this role, NLB are required to inspect all Aids to Navigation within these areas, including Local Lighthouse Authority, Offshore Oil and Aquaculture aids. NLB also undertakes audits of Local Lighthouse Authority with respect to compliance with the Aids to Navigation requirements of the Port Marine Safety Code.
Any establishment, alteration or removal of an Aid to Navigation within Scottish or Manx water requires the prior sanction of the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses. Standard forms for this purpose are provided, however it is recommended that planned changes are initially notified to the Navigation Section at navigation@nlb.org.uk for early discussion.
Application for New or Alter Navigational Light or Mark
Application to Discontinue Existing Navigational Light or Mark