Exact date Britain’s ‘groundbreaking’ new tunnel will open – charging drivers £4 every day to use crucial route
THE exact date for when Britain’s “groundbreaking” new tunnel will open has been announced – and drivers should expect to be charged £4 each way.
Transport for London revealed the east London passageway as part of plans to reduce traffic congestion and pollution in the area.
The new Silvertown Tunnel has not escaped controversy with some voicing their fears that more drivers will be drawn to the area, impacting air quality.
Despite this, TfL confirmed the plans which have been overseen by Riverlinx Limited and the grand opening is expected in just a few months time.
Commencing on April 7, the transport network explained how new bus routes serving the tunnel will be free for “at least the first year”.
This includes routes serving Greenwich, Newham and Tower Hamlets.
These are expected to launch the same day as the opening of the new link.
By introducing these alongside the Superloop 4 (SL4) between Canary Whard and Grove Park, the number of buses able to cross the river every hour should increase in the area.
This means more Londoners could reap the benefits of the transport investment.
The latest update has confirmed work is moving towards the installation of infrastructure to support the new zero-emission bus routes.
Operating every 12 minutes, seven days a week, commuters and punters will be able to make use of the service from 06:30 to 21:30.
The charges for Silvertown and Blackwall have already been listed for those wondering how much of a set back to expect for each journey.
For cars and small vans travelling at peak times, drivers will be expected to fork out £4 each way.
While those setting off during the standard off-peak times should prepare to be charged £1.50.
TfL have teased the unique branding for the buses, stops and shelters but are yet to confirm exactly what this will look like.
Interested travellers should expect details of the branding soon with the government body suggesting all will be revealed in the new year.
Sadiq Khan reviewed the scheme when he came into office with the first announcement back in 2012.
Costing £2.2 billion, Khan gave the green light for the project to be funded with a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) against future earnings.
Discounts for those on low incomes and small businesses are expected to be put in place.
Reaction from locals has varied with a petition opposing the “Kent tax” already gaining over 41,000 signatures.
Organiser, Liam Davis, has described the “financial burden” the tolls could place on residents as “very concerning”.
With potential commuters travelling from historic Kent county boundaries, Davis has urged the Mayor to rethink the cost and reduce the told to £1 for every Thames crossing.
Politician and Reform UK member, Alex Wilson, previously posted a video to “stop the tunnel tax”.
However, supporters for the project have also taken to social media to express their thoughts.
One user on X, formerly known as Twitter, wrote: “Brilliant, you might save 10-15 minutes on rush hour.”