Lewisham Council has become the second authority to declare its opposition to the controversial Silvertown Tunnel – just days before Transport for London’s consultation ends.
Councillors unanimously passed a motion, which said the planned river crossing between Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks, would exacerbate rather than disperse traffic congestion on the southern approaches to the Blackwall Tunnel, including the A2 and South Circular.
Hackney Council put forward a similar motion in July this year calling for Transport for London’s plans for the tunnel – backed by London Mayor Boris Johnson - to be scrapped as it would increase traffic and air pollution.
In a statement issued today (November 26) following last night’s meeting, Lewisham Labour group said: “An increase in traffic congestion would likely to lead to more pollution and poorer air quality in this part of the borough, which would negatively affect the health of the local community.
“We need to improve the air quality in Lewisham and tackle pollution, but the Silvertown Tunnel would risk making things worse.”
The group also said the Silvertown Tunnel does not include any crossings for pedestrians and cyclists and called on the London Mayor to work on a plan, which would improve air quality and is open to all – not just cars.
Steve Chambers, from the Campaign for Better Transport group, said: “This scheme is decidedly 1960s and harks back to a bygone era where the car was king and every household had two.
“In fact car use is declining making this road tunnel unwanted and totally unnecessary.
“The money would be better spent on new rail, pedestrian and cycle connections, rather than another traffic clogged toll tunnel.”
A map of the proposed Silvertown Tunnel river crossing (Photo by Transport for London)
But Transport for London said the scheme would reduce congestion at the Blackwall Tunnel and improve the reliability and resilience of the wider road network.
If the plans are given the final go ahead by whoever succeeds Mr Johnson as mayor next May, tolls would be introduced for both the existing Blackwall Tunnel and the new Silvertown Tunnel.
He previously said: “The Silvertown Tunnel would provide a vital new link beneath the Thames from two of our city's great opportunity areas for new homes and jobs."
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