Silvertown Tunnel Delivers Journey Time Improvements One Year On, TfL Says

One year after opening, the Silvertown Tunnel has helped ease congestion and improve journey times across east London, according to Transport for London (TfL).

New data indicates that weekday peak journeys through the nearby Blackwall Tunnel have reduced by more than 10%, reflecting improved traffic flow following the introduction of the new crossing. Prior to the scheme, the Blackwall Tunnel experienced around 700 closures annually, frequently caused by incidents such as overheight vehicles becoming stuck.

The £2.2 billion Silvertown Tunnel, which runs approximately 1.4km beneath the River Thames between Greenwich and Newham, was first proposed in 2012. It was later reviewed and progressed under Mayor Sadiq Khan as part of efforts to improve cross-river connectivity in east London.

Both the Silvertown and Blackwall tunnels operate with user charges, with peak-time car journeys costing £4. The project was funded through private finance, with costs expected to be recovered over around 25 years via toll revenues.

David Rowe, TfL’s director of investment planning, said the scheme had addressed long-standing congestion issues in the area: “Before the Silvertown Tunnel opened, residents and businesses in east London regularly experienced severe delays. We’re now seeing clear evidence of improved journey reliability.”

TfL also highlighted a shift towards more sustainable travel, with new zero-emission double-decker buses using dedicated lanes through the tunnel. Daily cross-river bus journeys have increased significantly, rising from around 2,700 to 10,400 over the past year.

However, some concerns remain. Critics argue that the introduction of tolls has diverted traffic to alternative, toll-free crossings such as Tower Bridge, the Rotherhithe Tunnel and the Woolwich Ferry. Sheila Keeble of the Greenwich Society said the ferry in particular has seen increased demand, adding pressure to local routes.

Despite this, she acknowledged that the new tunnel has alleviated the severe congestion previously associated with the Blackwall Tunnel, describing it overall as a “net positive”.

TfL said it will continue to monitor the impact of the scheme on traffic patterns, surrounding routes and environmental outcomes as the network adapts to the changes.