One of the biggest changes to transportation in recent years is the introduction of tolls for the new Silvertown Tunnel and London's Blackwall Tunnel Charges. Drivers, commuters, and taxi operators in London will have to pay a daily toll to cross the Thames via these important routes starting in the spring of 2025.

Although the change is intended to reduce traffic and finance long-term infrastructure, it also requires drivers to adjust to new travel patterns, prices, and payment methods. Everything you need to know about Silvertown Tunnel Charges, Blackwall Tunnel Charges, payment choices, exemptions, and compliance is explained on this page.

Why Are Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnels Being Tolled?

The tolls were implemented by Transport for London (TfL) to: 

  1. Reduce traffic congestion:

With more than 100,000 cars passing through it every day, the Blackwall Tunnel is one of the busiest river crossings in London. For a long time, congestion has been an issue, particularly during peak hours.

  1. Encourage sustainable travel:

Tolls are intended to promote cycling or public transportation as alternatives to driving needlessly.

  1. Fund the Silvertown Tunnel project:

Revenue will support the effective upkeep of both tunnels and the repayment of construction expenditures.

To put it briefly, the toll system helps Londoners have a more dependable, sustainable, and green transportation system.

When the New Toll System Starts

When the Silvertown Tunnel opens in April 2025, both the Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnels will start to impose tolls on cars travelling in either direction.

The hours for charging are:

  • Every day from 06:00 to 22:00, including weekends and bank holidays

  • Free use from 22:00 to 06:00 during the night

Drivers may carefully plan crossings to save money thanks to this regular schedule, which is especially helpful for London cab drivers who work early or late shifts.

Who Needs to Pay – and Who’s Exempt?

Exempt Vehicles:

Some users won't have to pay the Silvertown or Blackwall tunnel fees. Among them are:

  • London taxis with licenses (the famous black taxis)

  • Emergency vehicles, such as police, fire, and ambulances

  • Private hire vehicles (PHVs) with zero emissions that adhere to TfL's clean air regulations

  • Coaches and buses under TfL contracts

Others are subject to the tolls unless an exemption or discount is authorised, such as the majority of private vehicles, vans, and freight vehicles.

Discounts and Local Concessions:

  • Residents and small companies in some East London boroughs, such as Greenwich, Newham, and Tower Hamlets, are eligible for restricted discounts from TfL.

  • Residents who qualify might get a 50% discount.

  • For a restricted number of vehicles, small enterprises and charities are eligible to receive up to £1 off the off-peak cost.

Before the system goes live, check your eligibility on TfL's web portal.

How to Pay the Tunnel Charges

There are no obstacles or toll booths because the entire process is automated. Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) is used by cameras to identify cars and bill the registered account.

There are three ways to pay:

  1. Auto Pay (recommended):

charges your account automatically at the most affordable rate.

  1. Manual Payment:

Up to three days after crossing, you can pay over the phone, online, or using the official "Pay to Drive in London" app.

  1. Fleet Account:

intended for companies and taxi drivers in London who are in charge of several vehicles.

TfL issues a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN), which is presently £180 (reduced to £90 if paid within 14 days), if you don't make your payment by the deadline.

Impact on Taxi London Operators and Private Hire Drivers

The toll system presents opportunities as well as obstacles for ride-hail and taxi services in London.

1. Cost Management:

  • Private hire vehicles (PHVs) may still be required to pay tolls unless they are zero-emission capable, but the majority of black taxis with TfL licenses are exempt.

  • To ascertain possible expenses per shift or driver, businesses should audit their fleets right away.

2. Route Optimisation:

  • For late-night airport runs or off-peak transfers, schedule your journeys around the 22:00–06:00 free time.

  • During toll-free hours, expect increased demand; dispatchers will need to be flexible.

3. Customer Pricing:

These additional toll costs may be reflected in ride-hail and taxi fares, particularly during peak hours. To preserve openness and trust, it will be crucial to communicate any prospective surcharges to passengers in a clear and concise manner.

4. Compliance and Tracking:

Businesses that use several vehicles ought to enrol in TfL's Fleet Auto Pay program. It guarantees compliance, cuts down on administrative work, and helps prevent fines.

Environmental and Urban Benefits

Proponents contend that the tolls will:

  • Promote the usage of automobiles with zero emissions.

  • Improve air quality and lessen idle traffic

  • Reduce travel times via both tunnels

  • Provide London's transportation infrastructure with long-term finance

These tolls support London's long-term environmental objectives when combined with the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ).

 

For many passengers, remembering to pay tolls, checking peak hours, and dealing with PCNs is more trouble than it’s worth. That’s why the London taxi offers a seamless alternative.

When you use us to reserve a minicab:

  • There are no hidden fees because your fare covers all tunnel charges.

  • No registration or TfL payment management is required.

  • Prevent expensive penalties or late payments.

  • Get quickly picked up and dropped off in East and South London.