In 2025, London drivers will experience one of the biggest changes to river crossings in decades. The long-awaited Silvertown Tunnel will open, and at the same time, toll charges will be introduced for both the Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnel.
These new tolls are designed to manage congestion, improve air quality, and make travel across East London more reliable.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the toll prices, payment rules, discounts, and updates coming in 2025.
Overview of the Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnels
The Blackwall Tunnel is one of London’s oldest and busiest river crossings. It connects Tower Hamlets on the north side of the Thames to Greenwich on the south. Every day, over 100,000 vehicles use it causing frequent traffic jams and delays.
To solve this issue, Transport for London (TfL) is opening the Silvertown Tunnel, a modern twin-bore tunnel that will connect Silvertown (Newham) and the Greenwich Peninsula. It’s expected to open in 2025 and will operate alongside the Blackwall Tunnel.
Both tunnels will have the same toll system to balance traffic and avoid one route becoming overcrowded.
Why Are Toll Charges Being Introduced?
The new toll system isn’t just about raising funds. It’s mainly to:
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Control congestion by balancing traffic between the two tunnels.
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Reduce air pollution by limiting unnecessary car journeys.
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Support greener travel with zero-emission buses and improved public transport.
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Ensure long-term maintenance and operational safety for both tunnels.
Without tolls, drivers might rush to use the free tunnel, causing severe jams. The equal pricing system ensures fairness and smoother travel.
Expected Toll Prices for 2025
While TfL hasn’t released official prices yet, early estimates suggest:
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Cars and small vans: £1.50 – £2.50 per crossing
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Larger vans and lorries: £3.00 – £5.00
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Motorcycles: Possibly lower or free (to be confirmed)
Tolls are expected to apply 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including weekends and public holidays. This round-the-clock model helps manage traffic evenly throughout the day.
How to Pay for Tunnel Crossings
The toll system will be fully cashless, similar to the Dartford Crossing model. Drivers will not stop or queue to pay; instead, payments will be made electronically.
You can pay in three main ways:
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Auto Pay (Recommended):
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Register your vehicle on the TfL website.
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Payments are deducted automatically whenever you cross.
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Online Payment:
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Visit the official TfL website after your trip.
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Enter your vehicle registration and make the payment manually.
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TfL App:
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Use the mobile app to manage payments, view trips, and receive alerts.
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You’ll have a short time window (usually until midnight the following day) to make the payment manually if not using Auto Pay.
Penalty for Missing Payment
If you forget to pay, TfL will issue a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) to the vehicle owner. The penalty is expected to be around £160, reduced to £80 if paid within 14 days.
Failing to pay could lead to further fines or enforcement action, so it’s best to set up Auto Pay to avoid accidental penalties.
Exemptions and Discounts
Not every driver will have to pay the full toll. Some exemptions and discounts will apply:
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Blue Badge holders (for disabled drivers) may be exempt.
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Emergency service vehicles will not be charged.
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TfL buses and official service vehicles are exempt.
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Local residents near the tunnels may receive discounted rates.
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Zero-emission vehicles might get a reduced fee (pending final decision).
These details will be confirmed closer to the launch date, and TfL is expected to release a full list of eligible categories.
When Will the Tolls Start?
The toll charges will begin as soon as the Silvertown Tunnel opens—currently expected in 2025. Both the Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnels will start charging at the same time to ensure traffic stays balanced.
TfL will announce the exact start date, pricing structure, and registration details several months before launch.
Why Both Tunnels Have the Same Toll Price
Charging both tunnels equally ensures that traffic doesn’t overload one side. Without equal tolls, drivers would naturally choose the free route (Blackwall), causing chaos.
This system encourages smoother flow, reduces idling times, and helps maintain consistent air quality around East London’s river crossings.
Impact on London Drivers
Many Londoners rely on the Blackwall Tunnel daily for work or deliveries. The new toll will mean some extra travel cost, but it also brings benefits like:
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Shorter travel times
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Fewer breakdowns and closures
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Less congestion and pollution
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Improved air quality in local areas
For regular commuters, Auto Pay will make the transition smoother and stress-free.
Effects on Local Businesses
Local businesses using vans or lorries will need to factor in the new toll costs. However, more predictable traffic flow and reduced delays could save time and fuel, helping offset the expense.
Businesses can also register multiple vehicles under one TfL account, making payment management easier.
Environmental Benefits
The new toll system supports London’s goal of becoming a Net Zero city by 2030. By managing congestion and promoting cleaner travel, TfL hopes to reduce harmful emissions around the Thames crossings.
The Silvertown Tunnel will also introduce dedicated bus lanes for zero-emission buses, improving public transport connectivity between north and south London.
How to Prepare Before Tolls Begin
Here are some simple steps to get ready:
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Set up a TfL Auto Pay account early.
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Stay updated on toll announcements and prices via TfL’s official site.
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Check if you’re eligible for local or resident discounts.
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Plan your routes to include toll costs in travel budgets.
Preparing early will save time and help you avoid penalties once the tolls are live.
Common Questions from Drivers
Will there be a free route nearby?
No. Both tunnels will have identical tolls to prevent one from being overcrowded.
Can I pay in cash?
No. All payments must be made online or through Auto Pay.
Do the tolls apply to motorbikes?
Motorcycle charges haven’t been confirmed yet but are likely to be lower or free.
Will there be cameras?
Yes. Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras will record every vehicle crossing.
What Happens After the Toll System Launches
Once the system goes live, TfL will monitor traffic patterns and may adjust toll prices based on demand and congestion levels.
The goal is not to discourage driving entirely but to ensure fair, efficient use of both tunnels. Updates will be shared publicly to maintain transparency.
Conclusion
The introduction of tolls for the Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnels in 2025 marks a new chapter for London’s transport network. While drivers will face new costs, the benefits—faster travel, cleaner air, and reduced congestion—make it a positive step for the city.
By preparing ahead, setting up Auto Pay, and staying informed, you can cross the Thames smoothly without worry. The new toll system aims to make London’s roads smarter, greener, and more efficient for everyone.