Blackwall & Silvertown Tunnel Charges Rise 5% Today
Starting September 21, the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnels will see a 5% increase in tolls for cars, vans, heavy goods vehicles and motorbikes. The rise aims to manage congestion and improve air quality, while the majority of users now pay through TfL Auto Pay. Critics argue the charges divert tra…
By Felo News Desk · Published
On Monday, September 21, drivers heading into London’s East End will notice a 5% hike in the tolls for the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnels. The new rates apply to cars, small vans, heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and motorbikes, with separate peak and off‑peak schedules that reflect the busiest times of day.
New Toll Structure Explained
The updated pricing is designed to keep traffic flowing smoothly during the busiest hours while still generating revenue to maintain the infrastructure. Below is a clear breakdown of the changes:
- Cars and small vans: Peak charges (northbound 6‑10 am, southbound 4‑7 pm on weekdays) rise from £4.00 to £4.20. Off‑peak charges (all other times between 6 am and 10 pm) increase from £1.50 to £1.55.
- Heavy goods vehicles: Peak charges jump from £10.00 to £10.50, and off‑peak charges rise from £5.00 to £5.25.
- Large vans: Peak fees climb from £6.50 to £6.80, while off‑peak charges go from £2.50 to £2.60.
- Motorbikes and mopeds: Off‑peak rates increase from £1.40 to £1.55, and peak charges rise from £2.40 to £2.60.
All increases are capped at 5% for most vehicle categories, with a 5p bump for off‑peak motorbike rates and a 30p rise for large vans during peak times.
Why the Hike? Managing Demand and Improving Quality
Transport for London (TfL) has long used tolls as a tool to regulate traffic volume. In a statement, Christina Calderato, Director of Strategy at TfL, explained that the charges are “designed to manage traffic demand – which then enables wider objectives like improving the road network’s performance and resilience, encouraging use of public transport and active travel, and supporting economic growth.”
Calderato added that a modest price increase helps keep the user charge aligned with inflation, ensuring the toll remains effective in curbing congestion. Without it, TfL warns, traffic would swell, leading to longer journey times and poorer air quality.
Impact on Traffic Patterns and Alternative Routes
Critics argue that the tolls have already shifted traffic to other crossings, notably the free Woolwich Ferry. A TfL report noted that while the Blackwall Tunnel saw reduced pollution and shorter journey times after its opening, the Rotherhithe Tunnel experienced a 3% rise in weekday travel times.
Despite the shift, the new rates aim to balance the load across the network. By making the tunnels slightly more expensive during peak periods, TfL hopes to smooth traffic peaks and reduce bottlenecks that can cascade into the broader East London corridor.
How to Pay – Auto Pay Makes It Easy
More than 3.7 million vehicles are now registered with TfL Auto Pay, up from roughly 2.65 million in January 2025. The system automatically deducts tolls from a linked card or account, and about 85% of tunnel user charges are paid this way.
Drivers who do not pay on time face a penalty charge notice (PCN) of £180, which can be reduced to £90 if settled within two weeks. Only one PCN is issued per day, but repeated non‑payment can lead to further enforcement actions.
What Happens Next?
As the new rates take effect, TfL will monitor traffic flows and air quality indicators to assess the impact. The organization may adjust the pricing schedule in the future if congestion patterns change or if further inflationary pressures arise.
Meanwhile, commuters and freight operators should plan their routes accordingly, taking advantage of the Auto Pay system to avoid penalties and ensure smooth passage through the tunnels.
For more information or to register for Auto Pay, visit tfl.gov.uk/auto-pay.
Key facts
- 5% toll increase effective Sept 21
- Peak and off‑peak rates differ by vehicle type
- Auto Pay now covers 85% of payments
- Critics cite traffic shift to Woolwich Ferry
- Penalty for non‑payment starts at £180
Why it matters
The hike reflects TfL’s strategy to curb congestion and improve air quality in East London, affecting daily commuters, freight operators, and the wider transport network.
Frequently asked questions
When do the new rates apply?
From Monday, September 21.
What are the peak hours?
Northbound 6‑10 am and southbound 4‑7 pm on weekdays.
How do I register for Auto Pay?
Visit tfl.gov.uk/auto-pay and follow the steps.
What if I miss a toll payment?
A £180 PCN will be issued, reducible to £90 if paid within two weeks.
Sources
- [1] standard.co.uk — originally reported as “What you need to know as Silvertown and Blackwall tunnel charges rise”
