Enabling a new high-capacity river crossing to improve connectivity and reduce congestion
NG Bailey is supporting the delivery of the Silvertown Tunnel, a major infrastructure project providing a new twin-bore road tunnel beneath the River Thames in East London. At approximately 1.4km in length, the tunnel is designed to accommodate a wide range of vehicles, including double-decker buses, with dedicated lanes to support buses, coaches and goods vehicles.
The scheme forms a key part of Transport for London’s strategy to improve cross-river connectivity, reduce congestion at the existing Blackwall Tunnel and support the expansion of public transport services. By improving traffic flow and reducing vehicle idling, the project will also contribute to improved air quality and reduced emissions across the surrounding area.
Delivering integrated power, control and safety systems within a complex tunnel environment
NG Bailey’s scope includes the design, installation, testing and commissioning of key electrical and operational systems required to support the safe and efficient operation of the tunnel. This includes 11kV and LV distribution systems to provide resilient power across the infrastructure, alongside tunnel lighting systems with integrated controls designed to deliver safe, responsive and energy-efficient operation.
Additional systems include evacuation panels and signage to support emergency response, extensive cable management systems to organise and protect critical infrastructure, and motorised control centre panels enabling centralised monitoring and operation of tunnel systems.
The delivery of these systems within a confined and highly regulated tunnel environment requires detailed coordination, careful sequencing and strict adherence to safety and compliance standards. Integration with wider infrastructure systems is critical to ensure reliability, resilience and long-term operational performance.
Supporting safe, reliable and sustainable transport infrastructure
The Silvertown Tunnel will play a key role in improving the resilience of London’s transport network, providing an additional river crossing and reducing pressure on existing routes. The inclusion of dedicated lanes for buses and goods vehicles supports more efficient and sustainable transport, while improvements in traffic flow will help reduce emissions and improve air quality across East London.
Alongside infrastructure delivery, the project includes a focus on social value and community engagement, with initiatives to support local schools, provide education around infrastructure development and create opportunities for apprentices and early-career professionals.
By delivering critical electrical and safety systems within a complex tunnel environment, the project supports the safe, efficient and reliable operation of a major new transport asset, contributing to the long-term performance and sustainability of London’s infrastructure network.