Categories: London

How Much Are the Blackwall Tunnel Toll Charges, and When Do They Start?

Starting Spring 2025, drivers will be required to pay toll charges to use the Blackwall Tunnel and its newly constructed counterpart, the Silvertown Tunnel. These charges aim to alleviate congestion, improve air quality, and contribute to funding the £2.2 billion Silvertown Tunnel project.

Toll Charges by Vehicle Type:

Cars and Small Vans:
- Peak hours (6–10 AM northbound, 4–7 PM southbound, Mon–Fri): £4.
- Off-peak hours: £1.50 (only with TfL AutoPay registration).
Motorcycles:
- Peak hours: £2.50.
- Off-peak hours: £1.50.
Large Vans:
- Peak hours: £6.50.
- Off-peak hours: £2.50.
HGVs:
- Peak hours: £10.
- Off-peak hours: £5.

If drivers fail to register with TfL AutoPay, they will automatically pay peak charges regardless of the time of travel

Penalties for Non-Payment:

Drivers who fail to pay the toll will face a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) of £180, reduced to £90 if paid within 14 days. Only one penalty will be issued per day for multiple crossings

The Greenwich Wire

Exemptions and Discounts:

Full Exemptions:
- Taxis, blue badge holders, and wheelchair-accessible private hire vehicles.
- NHS-related trips eligible for reimbursement.
Discounts:
- A 50% discount for residents on certain benefits in 12 boroughs, including Greenwich, Newham, and Tower Hamlets, valid for three years post-opening.
- A £1 discount on off-peak charges for small businesses, sole traders, and charities.

Why the Tolls?

The charges are designed to:

Manage demand and reduce congestion on the new and existing tunnels.
Offset construction costs and maintenance of the Silvertown Tunnel.
Improve journey times and air quality in East London, with a projected reduction of congestion by up to 20 minutes during peak timesLondonistHome.

While the tolls have been met with criticism, including concerns about fairness and increased traffic in surrounding areas, they represent a significant change for London’s infrastructure