London drivers could soon face a new £4 toll every time they use the Blackwall or Silvertown tunnels. Draft road signs approved by Transport Secretary Mark Harper reveal plans to introduce charges on these important river crossings beginning in 2025.
Currently, the Blackwall tunnel is toll-free. However, the toll introduction will coincide with the opening of the new Silvertown tunnel in 2025. According to the proposed plans, tolls will be charged daily between 6am and 10pm, affecting all drivers in both directions.
The proposed charges include a £4 toll for cars and an £8.50 toll for larger vehicles. Payments will be made online. Draft road signs have been published to notify drivers and provide directions to toll payment points before entering the toll zone. It is important to note that these signs and charges are not final and may be subject to change.
This new toll proposal follows Mayor Sadiq Khan’s recent expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), which charges non-compliant vehicles £12.50 per day to drive within Greater London. Alongside the congestion charge and ULEZ fees, the potential tunnel tolls add to the rising costs for London drivers.
Transport for London (TfL) stated, “The ultimate aim of these proposed tolls is to alleviate congestion in the Blackwall tunnel and reduce emissions.” Transport Secretary Mark Harper’s approval allows for adjustments to toll amounts, vehicle categories, and charging hours. TfL emphasises that no final decisions have been made and that the current toll figures are placeholders.
The Silvertown Tunnel project has faced strong opposition from campaigners and environmentalists who argue it will not reduce emissions. Additionally, some drivers attempting to avoid rising fees have attacked ULEZ cameras, with nearly 500 assaults reported by the Metropolitan Police between April and August this year.
London’s complex system of road charges continues to frustrate many residents as the cost of driving in the city increases. Drivers are advised to monitor TfL’s official updates for any changes to the tunnel toll plans as the situation develops.
Originally published by UKNIP.
