What Are the Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnels?
The Blackwall Tunnel is a key Thames river crossing linking Tower Hamlets and Greenwich.
silvertown blackwall tunnel charges
It’s a lifeline for East London commuters but often suffers from congestion. Historically, it has been free to use.
The Silvertown Tunnel, opening in April 2025, is a new dual-bore road tunnel connecting Silvertown to North Greenwich. Built to relieve traffic on Blackwall, it will introduce charges from day one.
Blackwall Tunnel vs Silvertown Tunnel Charges
Starting April 2025, both tunnels will implement charges between 06:00 and 22:00. Outside these hours, crossings remain free. The tolls will apply equally at both tunnels, and payments will be handled via TfL Auto Pay or online.
| Vehicle Type | Peak (£) | Off‑Peak (£, Auto Pay) |
|---|---|---|
| Cars and small vans | 4.00 | 1.50 |
| Motorcycles | 2.50 | 1.50 |
| Large vans | 6.50 | 2.50 |
| Heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) | 10.00 | 5.00 |
Who Is Exempt or Gets Discounts?
Not all drivers will need to pay the full toll. Some exemptions and discounts include:
- Taxis and wheelchair-accessible vehicles
- Blue Badge holders (registration required)
- Zero-emission capable TfL-licensed private hire vehicles
- Low-income residents in Newham, Greenwich, Tower Hamlets
- Small businesses enrolled in the TfL discount scheme
How Will the Blackwall Tunnel Charge Affect You?
For local residents, the Blackwall Tunnel toll feels like a sudden cost added to a daily necessity.
If you live in boroughs like Newham, Greenwich, Tower Hamlets, or Lewisham, and commute across the tunnel by car, you’ll soon need to pay to use the Blackwall Tunnel. This could add up to hundreds of pounds a year in new travel costs.
Let’s say the toll is £2.50 each way (though the final cost hasn’t been confirmed). That’s £5 a day or £100 a month if you cross daily for work.
For key workers, delivery drivers, tradespeople, and small businesses that rely on crossing the river multiple times a day, the cost becomes even more significant.
Will Drivers Avoid the Tunnels?
With both crossings tolled, some drivers might look for other options. But the alternatives are limited.
Rotherhithe Tunnel is already under pressure, and Tower Bridge experiences frequent congestion. The Dartford Crossing is far out for many East Londoners and also charges during peak hours.
This has raised fears that tolls won’t reduce overall traffic but will shift congestion to other routes, making things worse elsewhere.
Final Thoughts
As of 7 April 2025, anyone using the Silvertown or Blackwall Tunnel during chargeable hours must be registered and pay the toll, or risk receiving a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN). Whether you're a regular commuter or occasional driver, be sure to set up TfL Auto Pay or check if you're eligible for discounts. Stay prepared and avoid surprises on the road.