TfL Discloses Primary Cause for Overturning Silvertown Tunnel Penalties
Transport for London has officially confirmed the most frequent justification for cancelling fines issued to motorists who failed to pay tolls at the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnels. Since the Silvertown Tunnel commenced operations in April 2025, the transport authority has received a staggering 140,000 challenges from drivers seeking to have their penalties revoked.
Substantial Revenue Generated from Tolls and Fines
The new East London crossing has proven to be a significant financial asset, generating immense revenue during its initial ten-month period. TfL reported collecting £37 million in toll fees and an additional £35 million in fines up to December 2025 alone. The authority has cautioned that this trend is expected to persist, as outlined in its recently unveiled three-year business plan earlier this month.
Upcoming Toll Increases and Common Challenge Reasons
Starting in 2027, toll charges for both tunnels will escalate annually, rising by the Retail Price Index rate of inflation plus an extra percentage point. In response to a Freedom of Information inquiry, a TfL case officer revealed that the predominant reason for accepting fine challenges involves errors made by drivers utilizing the Auto Pay system.
Specifically, the most prevalent issue occurs when a vehicle is not properly activated on the driver's Auto Pay account. Conversely, the most frequently cited grounds for rejecting a challenge is when motorists claim they were unaware of the toll requirements or how the payment system functions.
Breakdown of Challenges and Penalty Structure
Of the 140,000 representations submitted against fines, approximately 80,000 originated from London residents, while 60,000 were filed by drivers residing outside the capital. Recent data indicates that the majority of these challenges—roughly 96,000—have been approved by TfL.
Failure to pay the mandatory toll results in a penalty charge notice of £180, which is reduced to £90 if settled within 14 days. If the fine remains unpaid for 28 days, the amount escalates to £270.
Current Toll Rates and Payment Options
Auto Pay charges for cars and small vans are currently set at £1.50 during off-peak hours and £4 at peak times. Alternatively, drivers can pay via phone or online, where a flat rate of £4 applies at all times.
