The Blackwall Tunnel southbound is set to undergo a significant £3.66 million refurbishment, according to information obtained through a Freedom of Information request by New Civil Engineer. The refurbishment works are expected to include updates to the CCTV systems and major carriageway improvements.

The Blackwall Tunnel, which connects East London and North Greenwich, was first opened in 1997 and previously underwent refurbishment works in 2010. Now, with the planned refurbishment, several crucial upgrades are on the horizon.

The FOI request revealed a list of works, including the replacement of lighting and CCTV systems, messaging systems, and lane control signs. Additionally, the missing cladding will be replaced, and a series of carriageway repairs will be undertaken to address concrete, sealing, and road deck issues.

Documents from a meeting of Transport for London’s (TfL) Programmes and Investments Committee on May 17 indicate that the budget for the planned works during the 2023-2024 period is £3.66 million. TfL has already allocated £700,000 for the procurement of the works and has awarded the contract for the project to Tarmac Kier JV.

The refurbishment works are scheduled to begin in May 2024, and TfL intends to minimize the impact on Londoners’ travel during the process by implementing weekend and evening closures.

As of now, TfL has not provided details regarding the expected duration of the refurbishment works. However, the planned upgrades are anticipated to enhance the safety and efficiency of the Blackwall Tunnel southbound, benefiting commuters and travellers using this important transport link.