Drivers will soon be forced to pay more to use one of the capital’s busiest routes as Transport for London prepares to increase costs.
The Silvertown Tunnel is used by thousands of drivers every single day as a crucial route under the Thames between Silvertown and the Greenwich Peninsula.
Motorists pay a daily charge to use the route, which applies from 6am to 10pm, seven days a week, in both directions in the capital.
Transport for London announced a road user charge to manage traffic levels, pay off the costs of building the Silvertown Tunnel and handle the maintenance of both tunnels.
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Motorists will soon have to pay more for their use of the Silvertown Tunnel, as new charges for all motor vehicles are introduced on September 21, 2026.
Current Silvertown Tunnel charges
- Motorcycles, mopeds, motor tricycles – £1.50 (off-peak), £2.50 (peak and online charges)
- Cars and small vans – £1.50 (off-peak), £4 (peak and online charges)
- Large vans – £2.50 (off-peak), £6.50 (peak and online charges)
- Heavy goods vehicles – £5 (off-peak), £10 (peak and online charges)
Future Silvertown Tunnel charges from September 21, 2026
- Motorcycles, mopeds, motor tricycles – £1.55 (off-peak), £2.60 (peak and online charges)
- Cars and small vans – £1.55 (off-peak), £4.20 (peak and online charges)
- Large vans – £2.60 (off-peak), £6.80 (peak and online charges)
- Heavy goods vehicles – £5.25 (off-peak), £10.50 (peak and online charges)
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Nitrogen dioxide concentrations have decreased on average by 17 per cent, with TfL embarking on a massive scheme of introducing more than 20 zero emission buses per hour.
In July, Mayor Sadiq Khan praised the Silvertown Tunnel on social media site X, saying it was “already proving its value”.
He added: “It’s helping cut journey times, reduce congestion at Blackwall and make cross-river travel more reliable.
“It’s also contributing to cleaner air, with harmful nitrogen dioxide concentrations down by up to 21 per cent.”
Some Silvertown Tunnel charge exemptions exist for emergency service vehicles, TfL licensed taxis, and DVLA-registered minibuses, buses, and coaches
Similarly, zero emission-capable and wheelchair-accessible private hire vehicles licensed by TfL are exempt from charges when carrying out a booking.
Blue Badge holders can apply for a 100 per cent discount from the charge, which will apply automatically if they have an active discount with TfL.
Drivers living in 12 East London Boroughs or the City of London, and on certain benefits, are able to receive a 50 per cent discount.
Small businesses, sole traders, and charities operating in Greenwich, Newham or Tower Hamlets can apply for a £1 discount on the off-peak charge.
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