Transport for London unveils user charge plans for new Silvertown Tunnel alongside resident support measures.
Transport for London (TfL) has unveiled a package of measures to support residents and businesses in east London ahead of the opening of the Silvertown Tunnel in spring 2025.
The new tunnel is designed to alleviate chronic congestion around the Blackwall Tunnel, a Victorian-era structure prone to frequent closures. The Silvertown Tunnel will provide a modern alternative, reducing journey times and improving air quality.
User Charges and Discounts
To manage traffic flow and recoup construction costs, TfL will introduce user charges for both the Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnels, applicable from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. The charging scheme proposes:
- A standard off-peak rate of £1.50 for cars, motorbikes, and small vans registered for TfL AutoPay.
- Peak charges during busy hours, with an extra £1 for motorbikes and £2.50 for cars and small vans.
An eight-week consultation is now underway, allowing Londoners to weigh in on the proposed charges, discounts, and exemptions.
Support Measures for Residents and Businesses
To ensure a fair and green scheme, TfL proposes various concessions and discounts, including:
- A 50% discount for low-income residents in designated boroughs.
- £1 discount on standard off-peak charges for small businesses, sole traders, and charities.
- Free cross-river bus, DLR travel, and a cycle shuttle service for at least a year.
- There are exemptions for specific vehicle types, such as buses, coaches, registered taxis, blue badge holders, and certain clean vehicles.
Public Input and Next Steps
The consultation aims to gather feedback from Londoners to refine the user charge scheme before its implementation. Residents and businesses are encouraged to participate by visiting https://haveyoursay.tfl.gov.uk/19786/widgets/56145/documents/40186.
The Silvertown Tunnel project is part of a broader regeneration plan for London's Royal Docks. Construction of the tunnel is nearing completion, with an expected opening in spring 2025.
