From today, April 7, 2025, drivers in London will face new toll charges for using the Silvertown and Blackwall tunnels, designed to manage congestion and support infrastructure costs. These charges will apply every day between 6 am and 10 pm, with various rates depending on vehicle type and time of travel.
The Silvertown Tunnel, a long-awaited infrastructure project, will link Newham to the Greenwich Peninsula. Its construction, first announced in 2012, has raised both hopes for improved connectivity and concerns about the impact on local traffic.
According to Transport for London (TfL), the charges are intended to prevent increased congestion in the area, while also helping to cover the significant construction and ongoing maintenance costs of the tunnels.
Managing Congestion and Improving Air Quality
The primary objective behind the new tolls is to regulate traffic volumes and curb the risk of gridlock, especially in the nearby Blackwall Tunnel, which has long been a traffic hotspot. With the introduction of charges, TfL aims to strike a balance between efficient infrastructure usage and reducing environmental impacts, including air pollution.
According to Stuart Harvey, Chief Capital Officer at TfL, the charges are critical for “managing traffic demand” and ensuring that the new tunnel, alongside the Blackwall Tunnel, can serve its intended purpose of reducing congestion.
Without such measures, the region could face unsustainable traffic levels, worsening air quality and straining local infrastructure. The toll system aims to ensure that vehicles using the tunnels are contributing to the ongoing costs of their upkeep while discouraging unnecessary usage during peak hours.
Discounts, Exemptions, and Penalties
To help ease the financial burden on certain groups, several exemptions and discounts will be available. Low-income residents in select London boroughs, such as Tower Hamlets and Newham, will receive a 50% discount, while small businesses and charities based in the local area can expect a £1 discount on off-peak charges.
Additionally, taxis, buses, coaches, and larger vehicles, including those with nine or more seats, will be exempt from tolls altogether.
However, penalties for non-payment will be enforced, with drivers facing a £180 fine for failing to pay the toll, reduced to £90 if settled within 14 days. This penalty is designed to ensure that all road users comply with the new system, contributing to its long-term sustainability and fairness.
The Silvertown Tunnel’s new charges represent a significant step in London’s efforts to manage its growing population and improve traffic flow across the River Thames. While there are clear benefits for residents and the local economy, the full impact on daily commuters and the city’s environment will only become apparent over time.
