Guide to Silvertown Tunnel Charges for London Drivers
The Silvertown Tunnel is one of London’s most anticipated transport projects, designed to ease congestion and improve travel across the River Thames.
https://www.minicabs.co.uk/blog/silvertown-blackwall-tunnel-charge/
Once open, it will provide a vital new link between Greenwich Peninsula and Silvertown in East London. But with this new convenience comes an important question for every driver: what are the Silvertown Tunnel charges, and how will they affect your daily travel?
Guide to Silvertown Tunnel Charges for London Drivers
The Silvertown Tunnel is one of London’s most anticipated transport projects, designed to ease congestion and improve travel across the River Thames.
Once open, it will provide a vital new link between Greenwich Peninsula and Silvertown in East London. But with this new convenience comes an important question for every driver: what are the Silvertown Tunnel charges, and how will they affect your daily travel?
Whether you drive a private car, van, or minicab, this guide explains everything you need to know about Silvertown Tunnel tolls, payment options, exemptions, and how it compares with the nearby Blackwall Tunnel.
What Is the Silvertown Tunnel?
The Silvertown Tunnel is a new twin-bore road tunnel under the River Thames, connecting the Greenwich Peninsula on the south side to Silvertown in Newham on the north.
Scheduled to open in 2025, it’s designed to relieve pressure on the heavily congested Blackwall Tunnel and improve travel times across East London.
Once open, drivers can expect a faster, more reliable crossing, especially during rush hours. The new tunnel is built with modern safety features, dedicated lanes, and improved ventilation to reduce emissions and improve air quality.
Why Will There Be a Charge for the Silvertown Tunnel?
Transport for London (TfL) plans to introduce a toll charge for both the Silvertown and Blackwall tunnels. The reason is to manage demand, prevent congestion, and cover the costs of building and maintaining the new tunnel.
The charge will ensure that traffic flow remains smooth and that the tunnels remain financially sustainable. Without a toll, the risk of both tunnels becoming overcrowded again is high. Therefore, the Silvertown Tunnel toll aims to balance usage fairly between local residents, commuters, and businesses.
Expected Silvertown Tunnel Charges 2025
While the exact toll prices are yet to be officially confirmed, TfL has indicated that both the Silvertown Tunnel and Blackwall Tunnel will have the same charge.
Based on early consultations, the expected Silvertown Tunnel charge could range from:
Cars and Minicabs: £2.00 – £2.50 per crossing
Vans and Light Goods Vehicles: £3.00 – £3.50 per crossing
Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs): £5.00 – £6.00 per crossing
There will likely be peak and off-peak rates, with lower prices outside busy times to encourage off-peak travel.
TfL will confirm final prices closer to the tunnel’s opening date in 2025, along with details on discounts, exemptions, and how to pay.
How to Pay the Silvertown Tunnel Toll
The Silvertown Tunnel charge will work much like other TfL toll systems, such as the Dartford Crossing. Drivers will not pay at the tunnel itself. Instead, payments will be made online or automatically via an account system.
You can expect the following payment options:
Auto Pay Account: Register your vehicle and payment method. The system will automatically deduct the toll each time you use the Silvertown or Blackwall Tunnel.
Online Payment: You can pay for a single journey or multiple trips via the TfL website.
Mobile App: A dedicated TfL app is expected for easy management of payments and receipts.
Customer Service Centres: Support for those who prefer phone or in-person assistance.
Failure to pay the charge within the deadline (likely by midnight the following day) may result in a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) typically around £160, reduced if paid early.
Will Blackwall Tunnel Also Be Charged?
Yes. Once the Silvertown Tunnel opens, both tunnels — Silvertown and Blackwall — will have the same toll charge. This policy prevents drivers from avoiding one tunnel to save money, ensuring even traffic flow.
Currently, the Blackwall Tunnel is free to use, but that will change when the Silvertown Tunnel becomes operational. The dual pricing model is designed to create fairness and help maintain traffic efficiency across both routes.
Are There Any Discounts or Exemptions?
TfL is considering a number of discounts and exemptions for specific groups of drivers. These may include:
Residents near the tunnels: Local discount schemes for people living in certain postcodes (Greenwich, Tower Hamlets, and Newham).
Blue Badge Holders: Likely to receive free or reduced-rate crossings.
Emergency Vehicles and Public Transport: Fully exempt from the charge.
Fleet and Business Users: Possible discounted bulk payment options for registered commercial fleets.
Full details will be published closer to the tunnel’s launch, but London drivers can expect TfL to introduce fair and transparent criteria for all categories.
Environmental Benefits of the Silvertown Tunnel
Beyond convenience, the Silvertown Tunnel is designed to improve London’s air quality and reduce idling emissions. By reducing congestion and providing smoother traffic flow, it helps cut down pollution around the busy East London corridor.
The tunnel also encourages the use of electric vehicles (EVs), with discussions around possible discounts or zero charges for EV drivers. It supports London’s wider Net Zero strategy by offering a cleaner, more efficient transport connection.
Impact on Minicabs and Private Hire Drivers
For minicab and private hire drivers across London, the new Silvertown Tunnel will be both a time-saver and a cost factor. While there will be a toll, the reduced congestion and faster crossings could mean more trips per day and better customer satisfaction.
At Minicabs.co.uk, we plan to make use of this new route to provide quicker, more efficient airport transfers and cross-river journeys. Our drivers will have clear guidance on the best times to use the tunnel and cost-effective route planning to save passengers money.
Tips for Drivers Using the Silvertown Tunnel
Here are a few simple tips to help London drivers make the most of the new tunnel:
Register for Auto Pay early to avoid fines or missed payments.
Plan your route using TfL’s live traffic updates before setting off.
Travel off-peak to enjoy lower toll rates and faster journeys.
Check vehicle restrictions, especially for HGVs and oversized vehicles.
Keep your number plate and payment details up to date to avoid billing issues.
Following these steps will help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience when the Silvertown Tunnel officially opens.
How the Tunnel Benefits London as a Whole
The Silvertown Tunnel isn’t just about cutting travel time — it’s about improving connectivity across East London. It will:
Support economic growth by linking key business areas.
Reduce delays and congestion at the Blackwall Tunnel.
Improve air quality through modern design and cleaner traffic flow.
Provide more reliable public transport links via dedicated bus lanes.
For drivers, businesses, and commuters, it represents a major improvement in how London moves.
Conclusion
The Silvertown Tunnel is set to transform travel across East London by offering a faster, more efficient Thames crossing. With clear toll charges, smart payment systems, and fair exemptions, drivers will soon enjoy a modern and convenient route that complements the existing Blackwall Tunnel.
As the official opening approaches, Minicabs.co.uk will continue to keep London drivers informed about Silvertown Tunnel charges, toll rates, and the best ways to travel cost-effectively across the city.

https://www.minicabs.co.uk/blog/silvertown-blackwall-tunnel-charge/
Whether you drive a private car, van, or minicab, this guide explains everything you need to know about Silvertown Tunnel tolls, payment options, exemptions, and how it compares with the nearby Blackwall Tunnel.
What Is the Silvertown Tunnel?
The Silvertown Tunnel is a new twin-bore road tunnel under the River Thames, connecting the Greenwich Peninsula on the south side to Silvertown in Newham on the north.
Scheduled to open in 2025, it’s designed to relieve pressure on the heavily congested Blackwall Tunnel and improve travel times across East London.
Once open, drivers can expect a faster, more reliable crossing, especially during rush hours. The new tunnel is built with modern safety features, dedicated lanes, and improved ventilation to reduce emissions and improve air quality.
Why Will There Be a Charge for the Silvertown Tunnel?
Transport for London (TfL) plans to introduce a toll charge for both the Silvertown and Blackwall tunnels. The reason is to manage demand, prevent congestion, and cover the costs of building and maintaining the new tunnel.
The charge will ensure that traffic flow remains smooth and that the tunnels remain financially sustainable. Without a toll, the risk of both tunnels becoming overcrowded again is high. Therefore, the Silvertown Tunnel toll aims to balance usage fairly between local residents, commuters, and businesses.
Expected Silvertown Tunnel Charges 2025
While the exact toll prices are yet to be officially confirmed, TfL has indicated that both the Silvertown Tunnel and Blackwall Tunnel will have the same charge.
Based on early consultations, the expected Silvertown Tunnel charge could range from:
Cars and Minicabs: £2.00 – £2.50 per crossing
Vans and Light Goods Vehicles: £3.00 – £3.50 per crossing
Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs): £5.00 – £6.00 per crossing
There will likely be peak and off-peak rates, with lower prices outside busy times to encourage off-peak travel.
TfL will confirm final prices closer to the tunnel’s opening date in 2025, along with details on discounts, exemptions, and how to pay.
How to Pay the Silvertown Tunnel Toll
The Silvertown Tunnel charge will work much like other TfL toll systems, such as the Dartford Crossing. Drivers will not pay at the tunnel itself. Instead, payments will be made online or automatically via an account system.
You can expect the following payment options:
Auto Pay Account: Register your vehicle and payment method. The system will automatically deduct the toll each time you use the Silvertown or Blackwall Tunnel.
Online Payment: You can pay for a single journey or multiple trips via the TfL website.
Mobile App: A dedicated TfL app is expected for easy management of payments and receipts.
Customer Service Centres: Support for those who prefer phone or in-person assistance.
Failure to pay the charge within the deadline (likely by midnight the following day) may result in a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) typically around £160, reduced if paid early.
Will Blackwall Tunnel Also Be Charged?
Yes. Once the Silvertown Tunnel opens, both tunnels — Silvertown and Blackwall — will have the same toll charge. This policy prevents drivers from avoiding one tunnel to save money, ensuring even traffic flow.
Currently, the Blackwall Tunnel is free to use, but that will change when the Silvertown Tunnel becomes operational. The dual pricing model is designed to create fairness and help maintain traffic efficiency across both routes.
Are There Any Discounts or Exemptions?
TfL is considering a number of discounts and exemptions for specific groups of drivers. These may include:
Residents near the tunnels: Local discount schemes for people living in certain postcodes (Greenwich, Tower Hamlets, and Newham).
Blue Badge Holders: Likely to receive free or reduced-rate crossings.
Emergency Vehicles and Public Transport: Fully exempt from the charge.
Fleet and Business Users: Possible discounted bulk payment options for registered commercial fleets.
Full details will be published closer to the tunnel’s launch, but London drivers can expect TfL to introduce fair and transparent criteria for all categories.
Environmental Benefits of the Silvertown Tunnel
Beyond convenience, the Silvertown Tunnel is designed to improve London’s air quality and reduce idling emissions. By reducing congestion and providing smoother traffic flow, it helps cut down pollution around the busy East London corridor.
The tunnel also encourages the use of electric vehicles (EVs), with discussions around possible discounts or zero charges for EV drivers. It supports London’s wider Net Zero strategy by offering a cleaner, more efficient transport connection.
Impact on Minicabs and Private Hire Drivers
For minicab and private hire drivers across London, the new Silvertown Tunnel will be both a time-saver and a cost factor. While there will be a toll, the reduced congestion and faster crossings could mean more trips per day and better customer satisfaction.
At Minicabs.co.uk, we plan to make use of this new route to provide quicker, more efficient airport transfers and cross-river journeys. Our drivers will have clear guidance on the best times to use the tunnel and cost-effective route planning to save passengers money.
Tips for Drivers Using the Silvertown Tunnel
Here are a few simple tips to help London drivers make the most of the new tunnel:
Register for Auto Pay early to avoid fines or missed payments.
Plan your route using TfL’s live traffic updates before setting off.
Travel off-peak to enjoy lower toll rates and faster journeys.
Check vehicle restrictions, especially for HGVs and oversized vehicles.
Keep your number plate and payment details up to date to avoid billing issues.
Following these steps will help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience when the Silvertown Tunnel officially opens.
How the Tunnel Benefits London as a Whole
The Silvertown Tunnel isn’t just about cutting travel time — it’s about improving connectivity across East London. It will:
Support economic growth by linking key business areas.
Reduce delays and congestion at the Blackwall Tunnel.
Improve air quality through modern design and cleaner traffic flow.
Provide more reliable public transport links via dedicated bus lanes.
For drivers, businesses, and commuters, it represents a major improvement in how London moves.
Conclusion
The Silvertown Tunnel is set to transform travel across East London by offering a faster, more efficient Thames crossing. With clear toll charges, smart payment systems, and fair exemptions, drivers will soon enjoy a modern and convenient route that complements the existing Blackwall Tunnel.
As the official opening approaches, Minicabs.co.uk will continue to keep London drivers informed about Silvertown Tunnel charges, toll rates, and the best ways to travel cost-effectively across the city.