Blackwall Tunnel SHUT for Two Weekends – Expect Chaos!
The Blackwall Tunnel will be closed southbound for **two weekends in October** as part of crucial work on the Silvertown Tunnel Project. The overnight closures will hit during these key dates:
- From 11pm Friday, 11 October to 5am Saturday, 12 October
- From 11pm Friday, 18 October to 5am Saturday, 19 October
Northbound traffic will keep flowing, but expect diversions and delays. Routine maintenance closures will also continue on Saturdays from 11.59pm until 7am Sundays.
TfL Warns of Major Delays Across East and Central London
Transport for London (TfL) has issued a serious warning: drivers face severe delays on key routes like the A13 and Rotherhithe Tunnel during the Blackwall Tunnel shutdowns. Central London commuters are urged to switch to Tube and rail services if possible to dodge gridlock.
The Woolwich Ferry will run as usual, but queues will be long, affecting boarding times. Bus Route 108 remains operational despite overnight works.
Silvertown Tunnel: East London’s New Traffic Lifeline
The Silvertown Tunnel, a 1.4km new road tunnel under the River Thames, is designed to ease traffic chaos and boost economic growth in east London. It will link the Royal Docks and Greenwich Peninsula, complete with a dedicated bus lane to improve public transport options.
First proposed back in 2012 and approved in 2018, the tunnel promises to slash congestion once it opens.
User Charges Loom for Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnels
Once the Silvertown Tunnel goes live, drivers without discounts or exemptions will face a user charge for both the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnels. Charges will vary depending on:
- Vehicle type
- Direction of travel
- Time of day
- Payment method
Prepare for sticker shock and plan your journeys carefully to avoid added costs and hold-ups.
