The long-awaited Silvertown Tunnel is set to officially open on April 7, 2025, as Transport for London (TfL) prepares to introduce tolls for motorists using both this new crossing and the existing Blackwall Tunnel. The strategic goal behind the construction of the tunnel is to ease traffic congestion across the River Thames and facilitate smoother travel for east London residents.
According to TfL, the toll charges will vary significantly depending on the time of day. During peak hours, which are defined as weekdays from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM for northbound traffic and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM for southbound traffic, drivers will face charges of £4 per crossing. Conversely, during off-peak times, the fee will drop to £1.50. Notably, there is no charge levied during overnight hours from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
For larger vehicles, such as heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), the pricing structure is even more substantial. Charges can reach as high as £10 during peak times and £5 during off-peak hours. The introduction of these tolls is anticipated to manage traffic and pollution by discouraging unnecessary trips.
With more than 100,000 vehicles expected to utilize the tunnels daily, the Silvertown Tunnel aims to become a key part of London’s road network, providing improved access to previously underserved areas. “The current Blackwall Tunnel is, on average, closed 700 times each year,” stated Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London. “The most unreliable bus is the single decker using the Blackwall Tunnel. By instituting charges on both tunnels, we can reduce congestion and improve public transport.”
Many commuters are expected to take advantage of savings by signing up for TfL’s Auto Pay system, which will enable them to benefit from the reduced off-peak toll rate of £1.50. Without registration, the full peak rate applies all day, which could lead to unexpected financial burdens for unprepared drivers. Stuart Harvey, TF’s Chief Capital Officer, expressed optimism for the project, stating, “The tunnel is on track to open following years of hard work and collaboration. It's engineered to support local growth and improvements to public transport across the river.”
Opposition to the tolls has arisen from various quarters, with some critics claiming it will create disparities within London. Richard Diment, a Conservative councillor for Bexley, pointed out concerns about the impact on low-income drivers, saying, “We have relatively few river crossings, and these new charges will make southeastern London more isolated.”
To address potential pushback, TfL has also implemented various discounts and exemptions. Low-income residents from certain London boroughs, such as Bexley and Greenwich, will be eligible for up to 50% off the tolls, provided they receive government benefits. Additional fare concessions will apply to NHS staff and patients concerning tunnel charges.
Both the Silvertown and Blackwall tunnels will share the same toll pricing system starting from the opening date, highlighting TfL’s intention to prevent drivers from diverting to uncharged crossings, which could exacerbate congestion.
On the public transport front, extensive changes will accompany the tunnel’s launch. A new bus route known as the Superloop SL4 will begin service on the same day of the tunnel's opening, connecting Canary Wharf to Grove Park. The introduction of these bus routes aims to increase the frequency of crossings, boosting the hourly count from six to 21 buses at peak times. For at least the first year, all bus travel utilizing the tunnels will be free, encouraging residents to opt for public transport.
Cyclists will not be permitted to ride through the Silvertown Tunnel but will have access to complimentary shuttle services transporting both cyclists and their bikes. This initiative will also be free for the initial year, encouraging greener travel options.
Despite the optimistic outlook from transport officials, concerns about traffic congestion linger. Critics argue the new tunnel may worsen air quality and lead to increased traffic volumes, particularly for residents of already polluted boroughs like Newham. The Stop the Silvertown Tunnel Coalition has expressed its disquiet, warning of the adverse impacts on public health and the environment, urging for more sustainable transport solutions.
Overall, as construction wraps up, all eyes will be on the forthcoming opening and the implementation of tolls for the Silvertown Tunnel. Motorists are urged to familiarize themselves with the new toll structure, especially as they prepare for the changes coming this April, which will undoubtedly reshape the traffic dynamics of east London.