Transport for London has confirmed long-expected plans to charge drivers to use the Blackwall Tunnel as part of a wider tolling scheme involving the Silvertown Tunnel crossing.

The Blackwall Tunnel has been free since it was opened in 1897 but a TfL spokesman has confirmed that, once the Silvertown Tunnel opens drivers must pay to use either of the crossings in East London.

A spokesman for TfL told the Daily Telegraph: “As has been publicised for many years, once the Silvertown Tunnel opens, drivers must pay a user charge for using either the Blackwall or the Silvertown Tunnel.

“The exact charge levels for various types of vehicles using the new tunnel will be decided closer to the opening date.

“This user charge will pay for building and maintaining the tunnel – but its main purpose is to help us manage traffic levels. Any surplus revenue will be reinvested in London’s transport network.

“The Silvertown Tunnel, once open, will support growth in the local area, provide new public transport connections across the river via zero-emission bus routes and address the chronic issues Londoners face at the Blackwall Tunnel.”

(Picture – TfL)