The construction of the Silvertown Tunnel marks the first new road tunnel to be built under the Thames in over 50 years. The 1.4km twin-bore crossing links the London Borough of Newham and the Greenwich Peninsula.
KEY INFORMATION
Location: London, UK
Date started: 2019
Completion date: 2025
Client type: infrastructure
Main capabilities: programme advisory, project management
Connecting East London for the future
The Silvertown Tunnel was commissioned by Transport for London (TfL) to reduce heavy traffic at the Blackwall Tunnel, a key Thames crossing that regularly faces closures and delays. With population and traffic levels rising, a new route was needed to improve reliability, reduce pollution and support sustainable growth.
The new crossing includes dedicated bus lanes and a unique cycle shuttle service. It adds capacity for up to 21 zero-emission buses an hour to cross the river at this location at peak times, boosting public transport options and supporting London’s transition to low-carbon travel.
Our role in delivery and operational readiness
We worked closely with TfL from the early stages of the project through to the tunnel opening in April 2025, providing programme advisory and project management support.
Delivered through an innovative design, build, finance and maintain (DBFM) model, the project brought together public and private partners in a complex delivery environment.
We helped TfL establish tailored governance and reporting structures from the outset, including a robust execution plan and risk strategy designed to meet the specific demands of the DBFM approach.
We also oversaw key infrastructure coming online, from new signage and junction upgrades to three new cross-river bus routes.
Our operational readiness programme ensured all systems were prepared for opening day. This included bespoke training for control centre staff and coordination of more than 2,000 pieces of assurance evidence.
Throughout, we acted as a bridge between TfL, the RiverLinx Consortium and other stakeholders to keep the programme on track.
Creating long-term benefits for Londoners
Beyond easing congestion, the Silvertown Tunnel has delivered measurable environmental and social value, introducing new low-emission transport options and reducing air pollution on some of London’s busiest roads.
Small businesses and local residents are benefiting from targeted discounts and fare schemes, which provide better access to jobs, education and services on both sides of the Thames. The project created hundreds of jobs during construction and is already supporting more joined-up, inclusive growth across the capital.
