Commuters Slam TFL’s New Blackwall Tunnel Toll
Transport for London (TFL) is under fire for slapping a new toll on the Blackwall Tunnel. Drivers say the upcoming Silvertown Tunnel won’t ease traffic as promised—it’ll just empty wallets.
Silvertown Tunnel Hype Falls Flat with Daily Drivers
Ads for the £1.2 billion Silvertown Tunnel promise smoother rides and less congestion on the Blackwall Tunnel. But regular commuters aren’t buying it. Many claim the new toll is just a sneaky cash grab with no real traffic relief.
“No matter what TFL and Sadiq Khan say, the Silvertown Tunnel won’t fix congestion. Hardly anyone leaves at the A13 – they use the Dartford Tunnel or the A12. This new route will just pile up traffic on the approach roads,” vented a frequent Blackwall Tunnel user.
Traffic Jam or Money Grab? The Facts
- The Silvertown Tunnel is set to open in 2025.
- Drivers will face a toll charge similar to the new Blackwall Tunnel fee.
- Critics warn that rather than dispersing traffic, the tunnel will funnel more cars onto already clogged approach roads.
- Many commuters say they’re being charged for zero improvement in their daily crawl.
TFL and Mayor Khan Fight Back
TFL insists the Silvertown Tunnel will ease congestion by splitting traffic across two river crossings. A spokesperson for the Mayor of London’s office said:
“The new tunnel will spread traffic load, improving journey times and cutting delays in the long term.”
But sceptical drivers point out that existing routes – Dartford, A12, and Woolwich Ferry – already manage traffic without burning a hole in their pockets.
Calls Grow for Toll Rethink
With London motorists fuming, calls are mounting for TFL to scrap or slash the toll charges. Commuters demand a fresh look at the pricing and traffic studies, urging the mayor’s office to push for better alternatives before bleeding drivers dry.
