Blackwall and Silvertown tunnel charges increase
Tolls for cars and HGVs rise by up to 5% from today, with peak charges for cars now £4.20.
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The central claim is attributed to TfL, and specific figures and dates are provided.
How well corroborated and evidenced the reporting is. Higher is better.
The article clearly separates facts from comment and provides specific details about the charges and exemptions.
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Drivers using the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnels are now paying increased tolls, with charges rising by between 3.3% and 5% depending on the vehicle and time of day. Transport for London (TfL) stated the increases are to manage traffic, repay construction costs for the Silvertown Tunnel, and fund the operation and maintenance of both crossings.
The Silvertown Tunnel, which opened in April 2025, introduced charges for both crossings. This meant drivers had to pay to use the Blackwall Tunnel for the first time since its opening in 1897. TfL said that without the charges, there would be more traffic and congestion, negatively impacting air quality and journey times.
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New Toll Rates
For cars and small vans, the off-peak charge has increased by 5p to £1.55, and the peak charge has risen by 20p to £4.20. Motorcycles, mopeds, and motor tricycles now face an off-peak charge of £1.55, up 5p, and a peak charge of £2.60, up 10p. Large vans will pay an extra 10p off-peak, making it £2.60, and an extra 30p during peak times, reaching £6.80.
Heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) have seen a more significant rise. Their off-peak charge is now £5.25, an increase of 25p, while the peak charge has gone up by 50p to £10.50. These charges apply in both directions between 06:00 and 22:00. Higher peak rates are in effect on weekdays from 06:00 to 10:00 northbound and 16:00 to 19:00 southbound.
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Christina Calderato, from TfL, explained that the tunnel user charges are designed to manage traffic demand. She added that a small increase to account for inflation ensures the charge remains effective in managing traffic and achieving the project's objectives. Drivers using Auto Pay receive the cheaper off-peak rates, while online or phone payments incur the higher rate regardless of travel time.
Exemptions and Discounts
Certain vehicles are exempt from the charges, including emergency service vehicles, TfL-licensed taxis, and some buses and coaches. Blue Badge holders can apply for free tunnel use. Additionally, residents in 12 east London boroughs and the City of London who are on specific benefits can receive a 50% discount. Some small businesses, sole traders, and charities in Greenwich, Newham, and Tower Hamlets are eligible for a £1 discount per crossing for up to three vehicles.
Questions this report answers
+How much has the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnel charge increased for cars?
The off-peak charge for cars and small vans has risen by 5p to £1.55. The peak charge for cars and small vans has increased by 20p to £4.20. These new rates apply in both directions between 06:00 and 22:00.
+What are the new charges for heavy goods vehicles?
Heavy goods vehicles now face an off-peak charge of £5.25, an increase of 25p. The peak charge for HGVs has risen by 50p to £10.50. These charges are applicable in both directions during the operational hours of the tunnels.
+Who is exempt from paying the tunnel charges?
Emergency service vehicles, TfL-licensed taxis, and certain buses and coaches are exempt from the charges. Blue Badge holders can also apply to use the tunnels for free. Discounts are available for eligible residents and some businesses.
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