The long-awaited Silvertown Tunnel will connect Newham and Greenwich, with tolls in place to manage traffic and improve air quality.
London: The Silvertown Tunnel is finally opening on April 7, 2025. This 1.4km tunnel will connect Newham to the Greenwich Peninsula. But, there’s a catch—motorists will need to pay a toll to use it.
Transport for London (TfL) has been working on this project since it was first announced back in 2012. They believe it will help ease congestion at the Blackwall Tunnel and cut down on pollution. However, not everyone is on board with this idea.
Environmental groups have raised concerns, arguing that the tunnel could actually increase traffic and pollution. TfL insists that the tolls will discourage unnecessary trips, which should help improve air quality.
For those who do use the tunnel, the tolls will vary. Off-peak rates start at £1.50 for vehicles registered with TfL Auto Pay. During peak hours, charges will be higher, with cars and vans paying £4 and large vans up to £5.50.
Good news for some, though! Motorists in Waltham Forest who receive certain low-income benefits can get half-price tolls for at least three years. TfL claims the tunnel will save drivers up to 20 minutes during peak times, which sounds pretty appealing.
On the same day the tunnel opens, new bus routes will launch, including a free cycle shuttle bus service running every 12 minutes. This should make crossing the river a lot easier for everyone.
However, the Stop Silvertown Tunnel campaign is still vocal about their opposition. They argue that the tunnel will only worsen traffic and pollution, suggesting that tolling the Blackwall Tunnel would have been a better solution.
Stuart Harvey from TfL is optimistic, saying the tunnel is a result of hard work and collaboration. He believes it will support local growth and improve public transport connections.
With chronic traffic issues around the Blackwall Tunnel, this new tunnel could be a game-changer. But only time will tell if it lives up to the promises made.
