Preliminary Inquiries Act, 1851

Where works are proposed affecting navigation or tidal waters, &c. Admiralty may require statements, &c. in explanation.

2. Whenever application shall be made to Parliament for a Bill whereby power is sought to construct any works on the shore of the sea, or of any creek, bay, arm of the sea, or navigable river communicating therewith, or to construct any bridge, viaduct, or other work across any creek, bay, arm of the sea, or navigable river, or to construct any work affecting the navigation of any harbour, port, tidal water, or navigable river, it shall be lawful for the Lords Commissioners for executing the Office of Lord High Admiral to require the promoters of such Bill to deposit at the Office of the Admiralty, in addition to the plans, sections, or other documents which may have been deposited at such office in compliance with the standing orders of either House of Parliament, all such statements and other documents as the said Lords Commissioners shall deem necessary to explain the objects of the intended application to Parliament, and the proposed interference with such tidal lands or navigation, as the case may be.