Residents in Bexley are voicing strong opposition to the recently implemented tolls on the Silvertown and Blackwall tunnels, arguing that the current pricing structure places an undue financial strain on commuters.
Bexley Council has expressed serious concerns about the toll rates, asserting they disproportionately impact individuals who must cross the Thames for work. The tolls, which began on April 7th, are part of a broader effort to improve transportation across the river with the opening of the new Silvertown Tunnel connecting Newham and the Greenwich Peninsula.
While officials state the tunnel’s purpose is to alleviate congestion and enhance public transit options, Bexley Council contends that its residents are bearing an unfair financial burden due to the current toll structure. The council has encouraged residents to explore available discounts but continues to advocate for a more equitable system.
Consider this: A Bexley resident enrolled in Auto Pay would face a £4 charge each direction during peak hours – a total of £8 daily when traveling northbound between 6am and 10am, or southbound from 4pm to 7pm. Conversely, travelers heading in the opposite direction at those same times benefit from an off-peak rate of just £1.50 per crossing, resulting in a mere £3 daily expense.
This stark £5 difference creates a significant disadvantage for Bexley commuters who typically travel north in the morning and south again in the evening for work.
Transport for London (TfL) has introduced several discounts to help offset these costs:
- Low-Income Residents: Individuals residing in 12 east and southeast London boroughs, including Bexley, who receive qualifying benefits like Income Support, Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Child Tax Credit, Working Tax Credit, Carer’s Allowance, or Housing Benefit are eligible for a 50% discount.
- Small Businesses & Charities: Registered businesses, sole traders and charities in Greenwich, Newham, or Tower Hamlets can receive a £1 discount on the off-peak charge for up to three vehicles.
- Exemptions: Taxis and Blue Badge holders registered with TfL are exempt from charges. Additionally, NHS staff and eligible patients may have tunnel costs reimbursed through an NHS scheme.
“This is a real kick in the teeth for our residents and small businesses who are being treated unfairly,” stated Councillor Richard Diment. “The higher charge for travelling South to North from boroughs such as Bexley to Newham needs to be urgently addressed with a more comprehensive package of concessions. Residents and businesses in Bexley have no choice but to use the tunnels given the lack of modern public transport links serving the borough and should not be discriminated against for doing so.”
The council has consistently pushed for improved transportation options and greater investment in public transit, claiming these requests have been largely ignored. During a consultation period prior to the toll implementation, Bexley Council requested an economic impact assessment; however, TfL approved the charges with minimal adjustments.
The 1.4km Silvertown Tunnel was designed as a solution to persistent congestion around the Blackwall Tunnel, aiming to reduce travel times by up to 20 minutes during peak hours, according to Transport for London.
