Car drivers travelling through two major tunnels in London could be charged £4 each time starting next year, according to new proposals by Transport for London (TfL).
The proposed charges would apply to anyone using the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnels in the east of the capital during peak hours. Peak hours are defined as 6am to 10am northbound on weekdays and southbound between 4pm and 7pm, as outlined in the eight-week consultation.
However, drivers who use AutoPay, the automated charging system, will only have to pay £1.50 during off-peak journeys. For drivers using other payment methods during off-peak hours, the charge remains £4 per trip.
Currently, using the Blackwall Tunnel is free. However, charges will apply once the £2 billion Silvertown Tunnel opens in 2025. The planned fees for other vehicles include £2.50 and £1.50 for motorbikes and mopeds, £6.50 and £2.50 for large vans, and £10 and £5 for heavy goods vehicles, depending on the time of day. Small vans will pay the same as cars.
These fees are planned for both tunnels to manage traffic and repay the construction costs of the Silvertown Tunnel. The tunnels will be free to use overnight for all vehicles, according to TfL. However, those who fail to pay the charges during the day will face a hefty fine of £180.
There are also exemptions for certain people and vehicles across the capital. This includes buses, coaches, black taxis, blue badge holders registered in the capital, and zero-emission capable private hire vehicles.
Discounts will apply to people on low incomes who are eligible for benefits, charities, sole traders, and some small businesses. The discount for those on low incomes is expected to be 50% for those living in 12 east and southeast boroughs. They can contact their local council for support.
For charities, small businesses, and sole traders, they must be registered in the boroughs of Greenwich, Tower Hamlets, and Newham.
Despite the proposed charge, the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan argued it would help reduce pollution around the Blackwall Tunnel. However, climate activists argue that the new Silvertown crossing will still increase traffic and air pollution.
In relation to Silvertown, Mayor Khan stated it “will help deliver quicker, more reliable journeys in east London by easing congestion and making journeys up to 20 minutes faster.
TfL Director of Strategy Christina Calderato also commented, “Without introducing tunnel user charges for the Silvertown and Blackwall tunnels, there would likely be high levels of traffic and congestion, which would lead to detrimental air quality impacts, as well as longer journey times.
The Mayor’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) was expanded last August, causing controversy among some drivers. Similar to the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnels, the ULEZ aims to improve London’s air quality by discouraging drivers from using older vehicles, who must pay a daily £12.50 charge. Dozens of activists protested at Downing Street when the ULEZ was expanded to all 32 London boroughs.
