New cameras are being introduced in the Rotherhithe Tunnel from early February to enforce vehicle restrictions around the clock.
Following recent analysis of the tunnel’s ventilation system, safety restrictions have been beefed up at the tunnel. Vehicles that are more than two metres (six foot six inches) wide or two metres high, or goods vehicles weighing more than 2 tonnes, are not safe to travel through the tunnel.
Enforcement officers have been present at both approaches to the tunnel since the new restrictions were and have been turning away an average of 600 vehicles a day since September.
However, from early February, enforcement will be carried out by the new cameras and people driving vehicles through the tunnel that do not comply with the restrictions could be fined up to £130.
Drivers whose vehicles do not meet the restrictions are advised to use nearby Tower Bridge or the Blackwall Tunnel to cross the Thames. The Congestion Charge does not apply to either crossing.
Glynn Barton, TfL’s director of network management, said: “I would encourage all users of the tunnel to check that their vehicle is below two metres in height and width, and that goods vehicles are less than two tonnes in weight, so that they are compliant when the new cameras are switched on.”
