NIGHT TIME CLOSURES: Critical fire detection repairs to the southbound Blackwall Tunnel in July

Image credit: Transport for London (TfL)

Transport for London (TfL) will be carrying out critical repairs to the Blackwall Tunnel's fire detection system in July, which require a three-night closure of the southbound tunnel between 01:00 on 21 July to 05:00 on 23 July and between 00.01 on Sunday 25 July to 05:00 on Monday 26 July.

The northbound Blackwall tunnel will remain open throughout.

TfL regularly maintains its tunnels to ensure that they are safe to use. Upgrades to the Blackwall Tunnel's fire detection system are needed to ensure they work optimally in the event of a fire. These works are to install a linear heat detection system (LHD) above the carriageway, which is part of an upgrade to the current fire detection system.

Whilst the southbound tunnel is closed, roads in the surrounding area and nearby alternative routes across the river are expected to be busy and delays are likely. For longer journeys, people are advised to consider routes away from the centre of London, such as the A406 or M25 and use river crossings further out to complete journeys. People traveling locally on Sunday 25 July are encouraged to use the Jubilee line or DLR services across the river.

Glynn Barton, TfL's Director of Network Management, said: "Safety is our top priority, and this critical closure of the southbound Blackwall Tunnel is essential to ensure the tunnel remains safe for people to use. 

”I'd like to ask people in the area who need to travel to plan ahead for their journeys and to thank them for their patience while we carry out this work."