Rotherhithe Tunnel Faces Intermittent Congestion Closures, Drivers Urged to Plan Ahead

April 23, 2026

Southwark residents and commuters using the Rotherhithe Tunnel are advised to anticipate short, intermittent closures. These measures are being implemented by Transport for London (TfL) to manage congestion within the vital river crossing, which connects Rotherhithe in Southwark with Limehouse in Tower Hamlets. The closures are affecting the A101 Rotherhithe Tunnel Approach and the junctions of Jamaica Road and Lower Road.

The Details

The Rotherhithe Tunnel, a structure over a century old, was not designed for current traffic volumes. TfL has confirmed that when congestion builds inside the tunnel, it may be subject to these temporary closures to ensure safety. Strict vehicle restrictions are already in place; vehicles exceeding two metres in height or width, or goods vehicles with a gross vehicle weight over two tonnes, are prohibited. Non-compliant drivers face fines of up to £160 per journey. These restrictions were introduced following a detailed analysis of the tunnel's ventilation system, crucial for extracting fumes in the event of a fire.

Community Impact

The intermittent closures and existing restrictions significantly impact local residents and businesses reliant on the Rotherhithe Tunnel. The tunnel serves as a key link for many, and disruptions can lead to increased journey times and localised traffic displacement onto surrounding Southwark and Tower Hamlets roads. TfL is also exploring proposals to physically prevent oversized vehicles from entering the tunnel in the future. Furthermore, major repair works requiring a potential nine-month closure are being considered for 2025 or 2026, contingent on the opening of the Silvertown Tunnel.

Planning Your Visit

The nearest TfL station to the Southwark entrance of the Rotherhithe Tunnel is Rotherhithe Overground station, located almost adjacent to the tunnel. The tunnel's address is A101, Rotherhithe, London, SE16. Drivers of vehicles that do not meet the tunnel's size and weight restrictions should use alternative crossings such as Tower Bridge or the Blackwall Tunnel.

Source Verification

This report is based on data from Transport for London (TfL).

Source Link: https://tfl.gov.uk/traffic/status/

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