Blackwall Tunnel closure causes rush hour chaos

The Blackwall Tunnel was closed on Wednesday afternoon, following a vehicle fire.

A van burst into flames inside the North bound Blackwall Tunnel and was completely destroyed by the fire, as drivers were forced to abandon their vehicles and flee the fire.

The fire broke out at around 12.15pm on Wednesday (August 28) and was brought under control by 1.20pm, however the tunnel remained closed for the evening rush hour and well into the night.

Drivers endured long delays around Greenwich,  Charlton and in Wiolwich, where the queues overwhelmed the Woolwich Ferry. 

Repairs to the carriageway are now underway, with motorists unable to join the A102 at the Sun In The Sands Roundabout.

A London Fire Brigade (LFB) spokesperson said: "Firefighters responded to reports of a van alight in Blackwall Tunnel, Greenwich. One van was destroyed by the fire. One man left the vehicle before the Brigade arrived. There were no reports of any injuries.

TfL advise drivers of continued disruption in the area.