Silvertown Tunnel Set to Open on April 7, 2025
Transport for London (TfL) has revealed the long-awaited Silvertown Tunnel will officially open on April 7, 2025. This new river crossing links Silvertown in east London to the Greenwich Peninsula, aiming to slash congestion at the notorious Blackwall Tunnel and provide a vital alternative route during maintenance closures.
New Crossing Charges with Discounts for Locals
From day one, drivers will face charges at both the Silvertown and Blackwall tunnels. But TfL is offering a helping hand to struggling residents and key groups with:
- 50% discount for low-income local residents
- Additional cuts for charities, small businesses, sole traders, and blue badge holders
- Discounts available only through TfL’s Auto Pay registration system
Boost for Public Transport and Cyclists
Public transport around the new tunnel will get a major upgrade. Expect:
- Express bus services and dedicated cycle shuttles
- Zero-emission buses linking key destinations cleaner and greener
- Superloop SL4 and extended route 129 offering free bus travel
- A whopping 21 buses every hour running through peak times across both tunnels
TfL also confirmed pay-as-you-go bus fares will be free on Superloop SL4, extended route 129, and route 108. Plus, DLR fares between Greenwich/Cutty Sark and Island Gardens, and Woolwich Arsenal to King George V will be refunded for at least a year after the tunnel opens.
Cycle Shuttle to Keep Riders Moving
To support cyclists, TfL will launch a free shuttle bus service carrying bikes safely through the tunnel. The shuttle runs between Seagull Lane (north) and Millennium Way (south) with:
- Five buses per hour, 6:30am to 9:30pm daily (except Christmas Day)
- Free rides for cyclists for at least the first 12 months
- All zero-emission, tailpipe-clean buses
Local Benefits and Community Support
Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Councillor Averil Lekau, pledged the new crossing will benefit locals. She said:
“We want to make sure our residents and businesses benefit from the new river-crossing. It will bring free and more frequent public transport options like a new express bus service and cycle shuttle, and free DLR journeys too.”
Greenwich residents on qualifying benefits may snag a 50% discount on crossing charges for at least three years. Pre-register on the TfL website to check eligibility and apply.
Accessible Info Across Communities
TfL is breaking down language barriers by providing info in eight of the most common east and southeast London languages. This ensures everyone’s in the loop about discounts and travel options.
The Silvertown Tunnel promises to slash jams, boost public transport, and promote active travel across east and southeast London. For the latest updates and to register for discounts, visit the TfL website.
