Drivers ‘facing new £4 charge’ to use two huge tunnels under London

Drivers will have to pay £4 to use popular Blackwall Tunnel within weeks introduced by . 

The tunnel, which is currently free to use, is set to start charging in Spring 2025

is set to recommend an off-peak rate of £1.50 for cars, motorcycles and small vans. 

However, officials have confirmed that different rates would apply during peak hours to help manage traffic. 

Peak fees would be set at £1 more for motorcycles and an extra £2.50 for cars and small vans, meaning the

Fees will apply to the Blackwall Tunnel between 6am and 10pm, seven days a week.

It means commuters working and living on opposite sides of the tunnel may end up paying an extra £8 per day. 

Some concessions will be introduced, including a 50% discount for low-income residents in 12 east and southeast London boroughs and the City of London.

Mayor of London promised the bridge would “ease congestion”.

He explained: “Londoners face chronic traffic congestion on the approaches to the Blackwall Tunnel, which was never designed for the levels of traffic now crossing the river in east London. The new Silvertown tunnel will ease congestion for drivers, reduce journey times and help manage air pollution.

“TfL’s proposed package of concessions, exemptions and discounts will support Londoners in a variety of ways, including those on the lowest incomes, and help local residents take full advantage of the new bus and cycle connections.”

The Blackwall Tunnel is a vital artery in East London, connecting Poplar to North Greenwich. 

Today, the route is a pivotal connection to Canary Wharf with around 100,000 motorists using the road every day. 

The route has been free to use since it opened back in 1897 but the opening of the Silvertown Tunnel has led to the introduction of new fees. 

According to TfL, the proximity of the tunnels means both need to be charged under a new system. 

This is to ensure that traffic levels “do not increase as a result of drivers seeking to use the uncharged crossing”.

Christina Calderato, Director of Strategy at TfL, said: “”If we did not introduce these, there would likely be high levels of traffic and congestion, which would lead to detrimental air quality impacts, as well as longer journey times.”