Blackwall Tunnel is set to partially close for three more weekends until early July due to works on the Silvertown Tunnel. The closures will affect southbound traffic from midnight to 5am on June 1-3, June 8-10 and June 29 until July 1.
It already shut from May 18 to May 20 during the same hours.
Transport for London (TfL) explained that a variety of tasks is being undertaken during these closures, including resurfacing roads and pavements on the tunnel approaches, installing safety barriers, working on retaining walls and carrying out landscaping. Northbound traffic through Blackwall Tunnel will not be impacted by the closures.
READ MORE: Parts of M2 in Kent to close for critical repair works
TfL has stated that the Silvertown Tunnel, which is slated to open next year, will alleviate congestion and enhance the reliability of Blackwall Tunnel. Drivers are being advised to plan their journeys ahead of the closures.
Traffic around Rotherhithe Tunnel and the nearby A13 Commercial Road is anticipated to be heavier than usual..
The Woolwich Ferry, which now departs every fifteen minutes, seven days a week, will also be running across the weekends. Drivers of HGVs, as well as vans exceeding two metres in height or weighing over two tonnes, are advised to consider routes away from Central London across the weekends where possible.
Nick Fairholme, director of capital delivery systems at TfL, made it clear that the end was in sight for the new Silvertown Tunnel, whilst also acknowledging that the necessary weekend works would inevitably cause some disruption.
He said: “We are getting closer to the opening of the new Silvertown Tunnel and appreciate that these planned weekend works will have an impact on some drivers. We are doing everything in our power to limit potential disruption and complete these essential works as quickly as possible, including ensuring a northbound route through the Blackwall Tunnel is maintained throughout.”
The 108 bus service will terminate at both Canning Town and North Greenwich. Travellers can make use of the Jubilee line to navigate between the two stations before continuing their journey by bus, with refunds available.
