Transport for London (TfL) has announced the details of the new Silvertown Tunnel Cycle Shuttle Service, set to start operations on April 7, 2025. This innovative service aims to provide a safe and efficient cross-river connection for cyclists between Silvertown and North Greenwich.
Beginning daily operations from 6:30 AM to 9:30 PM, the shuttle will run every 12 minutes and will be free to use for its first year. The unique silver and blue branding of the shuttle buses will significantly distinguish them from the regular bus network, making them easily identifiable to passengers.
The Cycle Shuttle Service can carry a wide range of cycles, including pedal cycles, tricycles, and folded cycles. To ensure compatibility, all bikes must adhere to specific size limitations: no longer than 2.14 meters (approximately 7 feet), no wider than 0.76 meters (about 2 feet 6 inches), and no taller than 1.4 meters (around 4 feet 7 inches) at the handlebar. Each cycle must also weigh less than 300 kg (approximately 660 lb), including the rider and any belongings. Notably, e-bikes, along with Santander Cycles and third-party hire bikes, will also be permitted on the service.
Located on the north side, the shuttle stop will be on Seagull Lane, conveniently close to the Royal Victoria DLR station. Conversely, the southern stop will be situated on Millennium Way, near the junction with Old School Close. This setup allows for seamless access for cyclists eager to utilize the tunnel.
A key aspect of the service is that it is exclusively for cyclists; pedestrians will not be permitted on the shuttle. Instead, TfL suggests that those without bikes use the new SLF4 Superloop route, which will operate in conjunction with the shuttle service from the tunnel’s opening day.
Lorna Murphy, Director of Buses at TfL, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming service, stating, "We’re pleased to share the final details of our innovative cycle-shuttle service, which will provide important cross river connectivity for a range of cyclists through the Silvertown Tunnel. This free service will help people cycling in East London cross the river safely and encourage more active travel across the area.”
In preparation for the new service, Stagecoach London has coordinated logistics to ensure a seamless experience. Paul Lynch, the company’s Managing Director, noted, "This new bus service simply means that cyclists can also benefit from the important new transport link under the river, and we’re pleased to be entrusted with providing it by TfL.”
Inside the shuttle, there will be two storage bays capable of accommodating a variety of cycles. Each of the two bays has the capacity for up to four standard cycles. Additionally, one bay will be specifically designed for non-standard cycles, which may include cargo bikes and folding cycles. Racks will also be available for luggage and other equipment, enhancing convenience for passengers.
To promote accessibility, the buses are designed to lower towards the kerb at each stop to assist boarding. A retractable ramp will facilitate step-free access, ensuring all cyclists, regardless of their abilities, can easily board the shuttle.
The Silvertown Tunnel, which was first proposed in 2012, aims to improve cross-river transportation by linking Newham with Greenwich Peninsula over a 1.4 km stretch beneath the River Thames. The service will play a crucial role in increasing the number of hourly buses able to cross the river in this area from six to twenty-one.
Starting April 7, a user charge will also be introduced for vehicles using the Silvertown and Blackwall tunnels from 06:00 to 22:00 daily. Charges will begin at an off-peak rate of £1.50 for cars, motorcycles, and small vans, with additional fees during peak hours on weekdays.
The introduction of the Cycle Shuttle Service underscores TfL's ongoing commitment to enhancing sustainable transportation solutions in London and promoting active travel. By easing the challenges of crossing the river, the service is poised to embrace cyclists of all types, helping contribute to a more connected and environmentally friendly urban environment.
As cyclists prepare for the launch, both TfL and Stagecoach London are focused on ensuring this new transport solution operates smoothly and efficiently. With customer feedback and further developments anticipated, the Silvertown Tunnel Cycle Shuttle Service is set to become an integral part of commuting for cyclists in East London.
