Bexley Council has condemned TfL for ignoring its concerns about tunnel charges.

The council had requested a thorough assessment of the economic impact before the charges for the Silvertown and Blackwall tunnels were finalised, says This Is Local London.

However, TfL approved the charges at its December board meeting with minimal changes to the original proposals.

The council argues that the charges, which offer discounts only to low-income individuals, will “strain household finances and burden Bexley’s small businesses”, which heavily rely on cars and vans. The £1 discount for local businesses does not extend to Bexley.

Councillor Richard Diment, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said: “This is another kick in the teeth for our residents and small businesses.

“We need a more comprehensive package of concessions and for the area of coverage for resident discounts to be extended to Bexley given the lack of modern public transport links serving the borough.

“We have long been campaigning for better transport links and for a broader commitment on public transport investment but this has once again been ignored.”

From April 7, 2025, TfL will impose charges on drivers using the Silvertown and Blackwall tunnels.

Cars, motorbikes, and small vans will face an off-peak charge of £1.50, rising to £4 during peak hours, when paying by Auto Pay.

Large vans will be charged £2.50 during off-peak times and £6.50 in peak times, while HGVs will be charged £5 in off-peak times and £10 in peak hours when paying by Auto Pay.