Blackwall Tunnel to remain closed until Wednesday
A fire near the Blackwall Tunnel has caused gridlock on roads across south east London.
The northbound section of the tunnel will remain closed until at least Wednesday following the incident on Sunday afternoon when a vehicle caught fire 100 metres south of the crossing.
Two people were taken to hospital - one with breathing difficulties and the other with an ankle injury - and both bores were closed for several hours before the southbound section reopened on Sunday night.
On Monday morning traffic coming into the A2 was at a standstill.
Garrett Emmerson, chief operating officer of London Streets, said: "We are working flat out to repair the damage caused by the fire as quickly as possible. I would like to thank the emergency services and our staff who did a fantastic job dealing with the fire and evacuating the tunnel so quickly.
"The closure of the northbound tunnel will cause traffic problems in the area. We are advising people to use alternative river crossings and allow extra time for their journey.
"We would also urge people to consider using the Tube or the DLR while the tunnel is closed."
Engineers are working to repair damage caused to the road surface, lighting and CCTV.
Motorists are being advised to use the Rotherhithe Tunnel, Woolwich Ferry or Tower Bridge.
Charlton Athletic have cancelled tonight's youth team cup clash against Chelsea at The Valley because of the incident.
2 Comments
Leave a comment
Read The Wharf E-Edition
And Mayor Boris reckons we don't need another river crossing. I would like to have seen him try to get to work on Monday morning in the ensuing chaos caused by the fire!
Ken had 8 years to sort this out and he didnt.
That wingbag Biggs does nothing good for the east end