Woolwich Foot Tunnel Lifts Set for Major Repairs

The Royal Borough of Greenwich has confirmed that repairs to the tunnel's North Lift will begin imminently and are expected to continue until autumn 2026. Once completed, work will move on to the South Lift later this year.

The Grade II listed Woolwich Foot Tunnel, which first opened more than 100 years ago, provides a vital pedestrian link beneath the River Thames between Woolwich and North Woolwich.

Councillor Calum O'Byrne Mulligan, Cabinet Member for Transport, Climate Change, Waste and Streets, said the maintenance was essential to ensure the long-term reliability of the tunnel's lifts.

He said: "This vital maintenance for the North Lift of our iconic Woolwich Foot Tunnel will ensure a reliable step-free crossing in Woolwich.

"We're sorry that this has taken longer than we and residents had hoped, but the repairs required the manufacturing of bespoke parts for the 100-year-old lifts and a fair and equal agreement on funding with our colleagues at Newham."

The council has also confirmed it is working alongside the London Borough of Newham and the London Borough of Tower Hamlets on longer-term plans to regenerate both the Woolwich and Greenwich Foot Tunnels, intending to protect their historic features while improving accessibility for future generations.

The repair programme will cost £217,000, with the funding shared equally between the Royal Borough of Greenwich and Newham Council.

The tunnel is expected to remain open for most of the works, although temporary closures may be necessary during maintenance. During any closures, pedestrians will be directed to alternative routes, including the free Woolwich Ferry.

Residents are being thanked for their patience while the essential repairs are completed, with the council apologising in advance for any disruption caused.