Transport for London (TfL) has announced the upcoming closures of the Blackwall Tunnel this weekend, which could lead to significant disruption for thousands of commuters. The tunnel, used daily by up to 100,000 drivers, will see its southbound route shut down on two occasions: first from Friday at 11 PM until 6 AM Saturday, and again from Saturday at 11 PM until 5 AM on Monday. The closures are part of preparations for the Silvertown Tunnel project, which will introduce another crossing of the River Thames aimed at alleviating the region's notorious traffic issues.
The Silvertown Tunnel, set to open in 2025, is integral to improving transport links, connecting Silvertown to Greenwich Peninsula. The ambitious £2.2 billion project aims to provide additional capacity as East London faces challenges due to its lack of sufficient river crossings. After it’s complete, motorists using both tunnels will be subject to toll fees of up to £4 during peak times.
During the closures, TfL expects alternative routes and river crossings will experience increased congestion. Drivers utilizing the local roads and other bridges may encounter long delays, particularly on the A13 and the approaches to the Rotherhithe Tunnel. TfL has advised commuters to check the TfL Go app and Journey Planner for updates, stressing the importance of using alternative transport methods like the Tube where possible.
While the Blackwall Tunnel remains closed southbound, the northbound direction will remain operational. This incomplete closure is intended to minimize disruptions as much as possible, but with the sheer volume of traffic relying on the route, complications are anticipated. Buses servicing the tunnel will also adjust their routes; the 108 bus, the only bus line crossing through the tunnel, will provide split services between Lewisham and North Greenwich, as well as between Canning Town and Stratford.
Despite these inconveniences, public transport options like the Woolwich Ferry will operate normally, even though significant queues might be seen as commuters flock to use it during the tunnel's closure. The Rotherhithe Tunnel, Tower Bridge, and the Woolwich Ferry will be the alternative options for river crossings, pending capacity constraints.
TfL's latest announcement is not surprising, especially since the Blackwall Tunnel has dealt with numerous weekend closures throughout this year. With construction progressing on the new tunnel, officials are urging drivers – especially heavy goods vehicles – to circumvent central London where possible. They have emphasized considering weight and height restrictions when selecting alternative routes.
East London is known for its surprising dearth of bridges, especially compared to West London, which boasts nearly double the number of crossing points. The Silvertown Tunnel is seen as pivotal for changing this scenario and intends to accelerate travel times across the Thames by proposed estimates of up to 20 minutes.
This weekend’s closures represent just one of many necessary adjustments as TfL works hard to improve infrastructure. Although the temporary inconveniences are inevitable, the long-term benefits of the new infrastructure may provide the relief commuters desperately desire once the works are fully operational.
For drivers and locals alike, whether these measures can deliver the anticipated improvement remains to be seen. With apprehension about the traffic disruptions, many are seeking clarity on how best to navigate the weekend hustle. TfL’s trial and adjusting of the new river crossing signals optimism for the future, but also highlights the immediate challenges faced by London’s transport system as it adapts and modernizes.
