One year after its inauguration, the Silvertown Tunnel has been credited with alleviating significant traffic congestion and enhancing travel times, according to Transport for London (TfL).
Recent statistics indicate that drivers utilizing the nearby Blackwall Tunnel have experienced a reduction in journey times exceeding 10% during peak weekday hours. Prior to the opening of the new £2.2 billion link, the Blackwall Tunnel faced approximately 700 closures annually, frequently due to heavy goods vehicles becoming stuck.
Concerns Over Traffic Displacement
Sheila Keeble, a member of the Greenwich Society who opposed the tunnel’s construction, expressed concerns that the new infrastructure has merely shifted congestion to alternative routes. The Silvertown Tunnel, which spans nearly a mile (1.4 km) beneath the River Thames, connects Greenwich and Newham and is situated adjacent to the Blackwall Tunnel.
Initially proposed in 2012, the project was reviewed by London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan upon his election, who emphasized its importance as a crucial connection across the river to east London.
Toll Structure and Financing
Both the Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnels impose tolls, charging £4 for cars during peak hours. However, certain exemptions and fee reductions apply. The financing for the tunnel was secured through private borrowing, which is expected to be repaid via toll revenues over a projected 25-year period.
David Rowe, TfL’s director of investment planning, remarked, „Before the Silvertown Tunnel opened, east London residents and businesses faced chronic congestion in the area.“
Traffic Patterns and Public Transport Initiatives
Keeble noted that the tolls have redirected traffic towards toll-free crossings such as the Woolwich Ferry, Tower Bridge, and the Rotherhithe Tunnel. She stated, „People don’t like tolls, and sat navs will just direct them to the free crossings,“ adding that the Woolwich Ferry is „absolutely overloaded all the time.“ TfL has been asked for data regarding the usage of the Woolwich Ferry.
Despite ongoing congestion in Greenwich, Keeble acknowledged that the Silvertown Tunnel has had a „net positive“ effect by eliminating the severe traffic jams that previously plagued the Blackwall Tunnel.
Public Transport Developments
TfL has indicated that the Silvertown Tunnel is facilitating a crucial transition towards public transportation. New zero-emission double-decker buses now operate in a dedicated lane within the tunnel, and the number of daily cross-river bus trips has surged from 2,700 to 10,400 over the past year.
Rowe stated, „We’re pleased to see that one year after opening, the Silvertown Tunnel, supported by user charges, is reducing congestion around the Blackwall Tunnel and improving journey times. We are continuing to monitor the impact of the Silvertown Tunnel both on congestion and the surrounding areas and environment as we pass this important milestone.“
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Bildquelle: Foto von The Transport Enthusiast DC auf Unsplash
