The ‘state-of-the-art tunnel’ was first approved back in 2018 and was created to help ease the traffic pressure on the Victorian-built Blackwall Tunnel.
However, it hasn’t avoided criticism since the idea of Silvertown was first brought up, with many locals concerned about traffic and air pollution increase due to the new tunnel.
Now, as London prepares to open the long-awaited Silvertown Tunnel, there is a lot of key information drivers will want to know.
When will Silvertown Tunnel open?
Transport for London (TfL) has confirmed that Silvertown Tunnel will officially open to the public on April 7, 2025.
The new tunnel will be open for cars, buses, motorbikes, vans, and HGVs, as well as a new bike shuttle service that will transport cyclists through the tunnel.
What are the charges to use the Silvertown Tunnel?
Charges to use Silvertown Tunnel vary depending on the type of vehicle and the times it is used.
TfL shared that charges will apply from 6am to 10pm seven days a week with off-peak times and peak times.
For weekdays, peak times are from 6am to 10am and 4pm to 7pm, seeing cars and small vans pay £4.
The Silvertown Tunnel opens 7 April 2025! 🎉
New bus routes, including the SL4 (Canary Wharf to Grove Park), launch the same day and will be FREE for at least a year from tunnel opening. 🚌
Find out more 👇 https://t.co/M2i82OPVxB pic.twitter.com/pjhBNyCUFm
— TfL (@TfL) January 6, 2025
While also at peak time, motorbikes must pay £2.50, large vans £6.50 and HGVs, £10.
At off-peak times, all vehicles apart from large vans and HGVs pay £1.50.
Large vans will pay £2.50 for off-peak and HGVs £5.
It’s important to note that for drivers to qualify for the off-peak rate, they must sign up for TfL’s auto-pay scheme.
When will the Silvertown Tunnel bike shuttle service run?
The bike shuttle service will run every 12 minutes, every day of the week from 6.30am until 9.30pm.
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How much is it costing to build Silvertown Tunnel?
The differences of Silvertown Tunnel and Blackwall Tunnel
Why is the Silvertown Tunnel in London controversial?
It will have two stops, one north of the river in Seagull Lane close to Royal Victoria DLR station, and one south of the river in Millennium Way near the junction with Old School Close.
What is the route of the new Silvertown Tunnel?
The Silvertown Tunnel will go under the River Thames and connect the Greenwich Peninsula with East London’s Silvertown district in Newham.