Strategy
Trinity House’s long-term strategy for the General Lighthouse Authority, Lighting the Way to 2035, sets out a bold and forward-looking vision to remain a trusted, innovative, and world-class authority in aids to navigation.
The organisation operates within a rapidly changing maritime landscape. Strategic challenges include geo-political instability, shifting global trade and traffic patterns, and the accelerating impacts of climate change. The blue economy and expansion of offshore renewable energy are creating an increasingly shared and congested sea space, while advances in autonomous shipping, data, and digital technologies are transforming the way navigation and safety services are delivered. At the same time, the sector faces pressures from an evolving regulatory environment, an unpredictable economic climate, and the ongoing challenge of attracting and retaining a highly skilled workforce.
Looking ahead to 2035, the UK’s prosperity and security will remain inextricably linked to the sea, with over 95% of the nation’s trade transported by ship through the major ports of England and Wales. The vital role of Trinity House in maintaining safe passage for these vessels, through its network of aids to navigation, will therefore continue to be of national importance.
So, as a proactive, action-centred response to this challenging strategic context Trinity House’s strategy outlines four clear priorities: delivery safely; organisations fitness; sustainable future; and profile and partners. The goals include modernising infrastructure and the operational estate; strengthening health, safety and risk management; enhancing commercial activity and policy influence; embracing digital transformation; and addressing the growing climate and environmental challenges facing the sector. As the CEO states in his introduction to the Strategy, “our people are the most important part of our organisation, and we will be an even stronger, fitter and more impactful organisation as a result of this strategy. The ambition in this strategy reflects our considerable expertise in aids to navigation, from setting and reviewing the navigational requirement to delivering the service to mariners, to internationally renowned research and development”.
In sum, underpinned by its WAVE values – Working Together, Achieving Excellence, Valuing Each Other, and Evolving With Ambition – Trinity House is committed to building a sustainable, resilient, and values-driven future that supports the safety and prosperity of the UK, protects the environment and save lives – at all times and in all conditions.
Against this backdrop, Lighting the Way to 2035 provides a clear framework for how Trinity House will continue to adapt, innovate, and lead ensuring that the organisation remains steadfast in its purpose to serve, protect, and support those who depend on the sea.
