Introduction The introduction of user charges for the upcoming Silvertown Tunnel and the existing Blackwall Tunnel is set to transform travel in East London. While aimed at reducing congestion and enhancing transport reliability, this policy has specific implications for Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) drivers.
Understanding the Charges Transport for London (TfL) has proposed charges to manage traffic and fund the construction and maintenance of these tunnels. The charges will apply daily from 06:00 to 22:00, with peak and off-peak rates, and are designed to deter high traffic volumes during the busiest times.
The Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnels charge is not a daily charge, this means you will need to pay each time you use the tunnels. The charge applies each way, for example, if you travel one way at peak time, you will pay £4 and then if you return via one of the tunnels at peak time, you will pay another £4.
The peak charging time where PHVs that are required to pay will be charged an additional £2.50 on top of the £1.50 are between 06:00 to 10:00 when travelling Northbound (South to North) and 16:00 to 19:00 when travelling Southbound (South to North). The peak charges only Monday to Friday. Weekends are classed as off-peak.
Exemptions for PHV Drivers Recognising the essential role of PHV drivers, TfL has proposed key exemptions:
- Zero-Emission Capable PHVs: These vehicles will be exempt from the charges, encouraging the transition to greener transport options.
- Wheelchair-Accessible PHVs: This exemption supports inclusive transportation for all passengers.
- Taxis (Black Cabs): Exempt at all times, differentiating their operational needs from regular PHVs.
Benefits and Challenges For PHV drivers, the exemptions offer significant relief, promoting environmentally friendly vehicles and supporting drivers catering to disabled passengers. However, drivers of non-exempt PHVs will face additional operational costs, potentially impacting their profitability and service rates. The initiative to reduce congestion and improve air quality in East London is commendable, but it requires PHV drivers to adapt, possibly investing in zero-emission vehicles to benefit from the exemptions.
Supporting Measures TfL has proposed supporting measures to mitigate the impact:
- Discounts for Low-Income Residents: A 50% discount for eligible east London residents aims to alleviate financial burdens. This includes people who claim the following benefits.
- Income Support
- Income-related Employment & Support Allowance
- Income-based Jobseekers Allowance
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Carer’s Allowance and
- Housing Benefit
- 100% Discount is available for
- Vehicles with 9 or more seats.
- Zero-Emission Capable PHVs
- Blue Badge Holders (up to 2 vehicles, similar to Congestion Charge exemptions)
- Wheel-chair Accessible PHVs
- Vehicles that are in the disabled tax class
- NHS Vehicles that are tax-exempt
- Business Discounts: Small businesses and sole traders in host boroughs can register for discounts, indirectly benefiting PHV drivers associated with these entities.
Conclusion The user charge policy for the Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnels presents a mixed bag for PHV drivers. While there are exemptions and supporting measures to ease the transition, drivers of non-exempt vehicles must navigate the financial implications. Adopting greener vehicles will be crucial for long-term sustainability and to fully benefit from the proposed exemptions. The consultation period is an opportunity for PHV drivers to voice their concerns and influence the final implementation of these charges.
Make sure you voice your opinions by participating in the consultation which will run for 8 weeks from 10 July 2024 to 3 September 2024. Here is the link https://haveyoursay.tfl.gov.uk/tc-yourview?cid=tc-yourview
