Silvertown Tunnel to Open in April 2025, Transforming South East London Travel

Greenwich Peninsula and South East London to Benefit from New Cross-River Links

Transport for London (TfL) has announced that the much-anticipated Silvertown Tunnel will open on 7 April 2025, marking a significant milestone in improving connectivity between East and South East London. The 1.4 km modern tunnel, Linking Silvertown and the Greenwich Peninsula, promises faster, more reliable journeys, enhanced public transport options, and reduced congestion in the notoriously traffic-heavy Blackwall Tunnel area.

Game-Changing Public Transport Optitunnel's the tunnel's opening day, new cross-river bus routes will launch, with service frequency increasing dramatically from six to 21 buses per hour during peak times. All buses will have zero emissions at the tailpipe and be free for passengers for the first year, making the service both environmentally friendly and accessible. Among the highlights is the Superloop SL4, connecting Grove Park and Canary Wharf, further enhancing mobility across South East London.

Dedicated Cycle-Shuttle Service

Cyclists will benefit from a bespoke zero-emission cycle-shuttle service, operating every 12 minutes from 06:30 to 21:30. With stops on Millennium Way near Old School Close (south) and Seagull Lane (north), the service offers a safe and convenient way to cross the Thames, also free for the first year. TfL has ensured that shelters and wayfinding will be cyclist-friendly, featuring maps of local cycle routes to encourage sustainable travel.

Environmental and Traffic Benefits

The Silvertown Tunnel is located within the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and is designed to improve air quality while cutting journey times by up to 20 minutes during peak hours. From 7 April 2025, a user charge will be introduced for the Silvertown and Blackwall tunnels to manage traffic levels and fund ongoing maintenance and operational costs. Discounts and exemptions will support low-income residents, small businesses, and NHS staff.

New Era for South East London

The project is a significant investment in the future of South East London. Residents and businesses have long endured the challenges posed by the Victorian-era Blackwall Tunnel, which suffers frequent closures and chronic congestion. With enhanced public transport links and innovative engineering solutions, the Silvertown Tunnel is set to alleviate these issues and unlock economic growth opportunities.

Improved Local Infrastructure

Work to upgrade roads, walking, and cycling routes in the area is nearing completion, including improvements around Tidal Basin Roundabout and Dock Road, with further upgrades to Lower Lea Crossing set to finish by spring 2025.

A Collaborative Achievement

Stuart Harvey, TfL's Chief Capital Officer, hailed the "Opening as a "testament to brilliant and groundbreaking" engineering." Riverlinx CEO John Hagan praised the effort of thousands of workers involved in the project, creating over 120 apprenticeships and introducing innovative construction techniques.

South East Londoners can expect improved travel experiences and reduced congestion—ViTfL'sfL's website for more details on the Silvertown Tunnel and its services.