Blackwall And Silvertown Tunnel Toll Charges Explained – Prices, Exemptions & How to Pay

Blackwall And Silvertown Tunnel Toll Charges Explained – Prices, Exemptions & How to Pay

The Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnels are two key routes connecting north and south London under the River Thames. For years, the Blackwall Tunnel has been free to use, but that’s about to change.

 

With the new Silvertown Tunnel opening in 2025, Transport for London (TfL) will introduce toll charges for both tunnels.

These charges aim to reduce congestion, manage traffic flow, and improve air quality in the area. Let’s break down everything you need to know about the Blackwall tunnel charge and Silvertown Tunnel tolls, including prices, exemptions, and how to pay.


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What Are the Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnels?

The Blackwall Tunnel, built in the late 19th century, is one of London’s busiest river crossings, linking Greenwich and Tower Hamlets. It’s used daily by thousands of commuters, delivery drivers, and residents.


The Silvertown Tunnel is a new project being built nearby to ease pressure on Blackwall. When it opens, it will create an additional Thames crossing between the Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks, helping cut traffic delays and pollution in east London.



Why Are Toll Charges Being Introduced?

The toll is being introduced to make traffic more manageable and to cover the cost of building and maintaining the new Silvertown Tunnel.


For years, the Blackwall Tunnel has suffered from heavy congestion and frequent closures. The idea is that introducing a toll for both tunnels will balance demand between them, reduce queues, and encourage more sustainable travel options such as public transport or cycling.


TfL also plans to use part of the revenue to support cleaner transport options and help offset environmental impacts.


When Will the Toll Start?

The toll will start when the Silvertown Tunnel opens, which is expected in 2025. Both tunnels Blackwall and Silvertown will be tolled from that date.


This means that anyone driving through either tunnel will have to pay a set fee, depending on their vehicle type and time of travel. The goal is to keep traffic levels steady and avoid one tunnel becoming busier than the other.


How Much Will the Toll Cost?

At the time of writing, TfL has not confirmed the exact prices. The final rates will be announced closer to the tunnel’s opening date.


However, based on similar toll systems and congestion charges in London, it’s expected that cars, vans, and larger vehicles will pay different rates. There may also be peak and off-peak pricing to encourage travel during quieter times.

Drivers should keep an eye on TfL updates to know the exact fees before the scheme begins.



How Will You Pay the Toll?

TfL is expected to make paying the toll quick and simple. There will be no toll booths or barriers, allowing traffic to flow smoothly. Instead, payments will be made electronically, similar to the Dart Charge used for the Dartford Crossing.


Here’s how you’ll likely be able to pay:

Drivers who set up Auto Pay may receive discounts or easier management of their journeys, especially for frequent crossings.


What Happens If You Don’t Pay?

If you forget to pay the toll by the deadline, you’ll likely face a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN). This fine could be around £70–£100, reduced by half if paid within 14 days.


TfL will use automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras to detect vehicles using the tunnels, making it easy to identify unpaid journeys. It’s always best to register your vehicle with TfL and set up an account to avoid unnecessary penalties.


Who Will Be Exempt or Get Discounts?

TfL plans to offer discounts or exemptions to specific groups to make the toll fair. While final details are not yet confirmed, the following are likely to benefit:

Once the full scheme details are released, drivers can apply for exemption or discount through TfL’s online portal.




What Areas Will Benefit from the Tolls?

The toll system aims to improve air quality and reduce congestion across east and southeast London. Areas like Greenwich, Tower Hamlets, Newham, and Lewisham are expected to see smoother traffic flow and less pollution.


With fewer idling vehicles and better traffic management, journey times across these areas should become more predictable and reliable, particularly during rush hours.


Will the Blackwall Tunnel Still Be Free at Night?

Unlike some road charges such as the Congestion Charge, which operates only during specific hours, the tunnel tolls are expected to apply 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.


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This constant pricing helps prevent people from waiting until late hours to cross, which could cause new traffic peaks. However, TfL may introduce off-peak discounts for certain times to spread demand evenly throughout the day.


How Does This Compare to Other London Charges?

The new tunnel toll will be separate from existing charges like:


Drivers will still need to pay these where applicable. For example, if your journey also enters the ULEZ area, you’ll need to meet emissions standards or pay both fees.


The Silvertown and Blackwall tolls are mainly focused on managing tunnel traffic rather than emissions control.


What Should Drivers Do to Prepare?

Before the toll system begins, it’s smart to:

  1. Stay updated on official TfL announcements.
  2. Register for Auto Pay once available.
  3. Check your vehicle’s emissions to ensure ULEZ compliance.
  4. Plan alternative routes or travel times to avoid peak hours.

If you’re a regular commuter, signing up for Auto Pay will make the process seamless and prevent accidental fines.


Final Thoughts

The introduction of tolls for the Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnels marks a big change for London drivers. While it adds a small cost, the goal is to bring smoother traffic, less congestion, and cleaner air for residents and commuters.


For now, it’s important to keep track of TfL updates so you’re ready when the charges start in 2025. By preparing early and understanding how the toll system works, you’ll be able to travel efficiently and avoid unnecessary penalties.


Key Takeaway

When the Silvertown Tunnel opens, both tunnels will have tolls. Payments will be electronic, discounts will apply to some groups, and the aim is to make east London travel fairer and cleaner for everyone.