Rotherhithe Tunnel TfL restrictions Camera Enforcement from February

Drivers are reminded that cameras will be enforcing the Rotherhithe Tunnel vehicle restrictions around the clock from early February 2019. The restriction to Car Only has been in placed for many weeks yet more than 600 drivers are being diverted while trying to cross using the Rotherhithe Tunnel.

Click here to find alternative routes Alternative crossings

Click here to read what Tfl have done

Which vehicles are affected?

Vehicles more than 2 metres (6’6″) high, 2 metres (6’6″) wide or goods vehicles weighing more than 2 tonnes (maximum gross weight) are not safe to travel through the Rotherhithe Tunnel. Drivers that do not comply could be fined up to £130.

The Rotherhithe Tunnel was built in 1908 and was not designed to cope with modern levels of traffic. These restrictions help to ensure that road users can continue to use the tunnel safely while we work on plans for the tunnel’s future.

Alternative crossings

Drivers of goods vehicles, including vans, should use Tower Bridge or the Blackwall Tunnel, both of which are outside the Congestion Charging zone. Goods vehicles that do not meet the restrictions are not allowed to use Rotherhithe Tunnel.

When Tower Bridge is closed for overnight maintenance, Southwark Bridge can be used. Currently, the Congestion Charge does not apply during the hours that Tower Bridge is closed overnight. From 8 April 2019, an Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) will be in place, operating from 00:01-midnight, 7 days a week, every day of the year, including weekends and public holidays.

The ventilation system

In September 2018, TfL did a detailed analysis of the ventilation system which would extract smoke and other dangerous fumes from the tunnel in case of a fire.

This analysis shows that repair work needs to be carried out urgently.

If you would like to read more about this issue, click here

Source: Tfl website