London's Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnels are set to see a 20p toll hike during rush hour, according to recent Transport for London (TfL) papers. This move, which will affect car drivers, marks a significant 4.4% increase in charges, based on inflation between December 2024 and March 2025. The toll for a northbound car trip between 6am and 10am and a southbound journey between 4pm and 7pm will rise from £4 to £4.20, while all other trips between 6am and 10pm will increase from £1.50 to £1.55. These changes are part of a broader strategy by TfL to align tunnel tolls with bus and Tube fares, which were increased by 5.9% in the spring. This approach aims to ensure a more balanced and sustainable funding model for London's transport infrastructure.
The Blackwall Tunnel, a historic crossing between the Greenwich Peninsula and Poplar, has been free since its opening in 1897 until the Silvertown Tunnel's launch in April 2025. The new tolls are designed to cover the £2 billion cost of the Silvertown Tunnel and prevent the Blackwall Tunnel from being overwhelmed by traffic, as occurred when the second Blackwall Tunnel opened in the late 1960s. The Dartford Crossing, another major Thames crossing, charges a flat £2.80 for those who pay in advance, with varying rates during rush hour and off-peak periods.
The increase in traffic through the Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnels, up by 8% due to easing congestion, has led to concerns about the impact on the surrounding areas. TfL is monitoring traffic levels at various locations, including Kidbrooke Park Road, Tunnel Avenue, and Blackheath Hill, as well as roads around the northern entrance to the Blackwall Tunnel. The finance committee at TfL will discuss the proposed toll increases on Thursday, with various user groups facing different toll adjustments.
The proposed tolls include a 5p increase for off-peak times and a 20p increase during peak hours for car and small van drivers. Motorbike riders, large van drivers, and HGVs will also see toll increases, with discounts available for low-income residents and small businesses. TfL encourages the use of its AutoPay service to ensure off-peak rates and convenient payment as you travel. This strategic adjustment in toll pricing reflects a broader effort to manage traffic flow and fund London's transport network effectively.
