Transport for London (TfL) and the Riverlinx consortium have announced that the Silvertown Tunnel is set to open on 7 April 2025.

This new GBP 179 million (US$ 221.6 million) crossing will connect Newham with the Greenwich Peninsula, aiming to ease congestion and shorten travel times in the area. The 1.4 km tunnel has been under construction since 2020 and is set to open alongside introducing new bus routes, which will be free for the first year. Among these services is the Superloop SL4, which directly links Canary Wharf and Grove Park. This expansion will boost the number of buses crossing the Thames in the area from six to 21 per hour, enhancing transport options for residents and accommodating a growing number of commuters. In addition to the tunnel, TfL is gearing up to introduce new infrastructure to support zero-emission bus routes, including a cycle-shuttle service running every 12 minutes between two purpose-built stops on either side of the river. Several upgrades to the local transport network have also been implemented, such as the recently completed improvements at Tidal Basin Roundabout and ongoing enhancements to Lower Lea Crossing, expected to be completed by spring 2025. These developments aim to enhance both the tunnel’s efficiency and overall transport connectivity in East London.

The new tunnel aims to tackle persistent congestion, especially near the Blackwall Tunnel, which often experiences closures and significant delays. To accompany its introduction, a user charge will be implemented to regulate traffic flow, cover construction costs, and support the upkeep of both the Silvertown and Blackwall tunnels. This charge is considered crucial for preventing deteriorating air quality and ensuring shorter travel times in the area.

The Silvertown Tunnel project is primarily funded through private finance raised by the Riverlinx consortium, which includes ABRDN, Invesis, Cintra and SK Ecoplant. Construction is being carried out by the Riverlinx Construction Joint Venture (CJV), a partnership of Bam, Ferrovial Construction and SK Ecoplant. As of now, work on the tunnel is nearing completion, with operational tests in progress.