A video has been released allowing people to travel through Greenwich's proposed £750m new river crossing - described by critics as a "waste of money".
The estimated cost of the tolled Silvertown Tunnel, linking Greenwich peninsula with the Royal Docks, has increased by 25 per cent since the plans were mooted in 2012.
But Mayor of London Boris Johnson claims the crossing - backed by Greenwich Council's leadership - is vital in meeting the demands of a growing population in east London.
Launching a two-month consultation on the project, Mr Johnson said: "The Silvertown Tunnel would provide a vital new link beneath the Thames from two of our city’s great opportunity areas for new homes and jobs - Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks.
"It has quite rightly been classified by the Government as a project of national significance and today we’re a step closer in making our vision a reality.
"Unless new river crossings are provided, the huge growth potential of east London will not be realised."
The plans would see both Silvertown and Blackwall tolled after construction to help pay its costs, with charges similar to those at the Dartford Crossing - currently £2 for cars.
It is also part of a wider river crossing package, with proposed new bridges at Gallions Reach in Thamesmead and Belvedere.
However, critics have branded the Silvertown plan "mad", arguing a new crossing next to the Blackwall Tunnel will simply double traffic and congestion in an already polluted area of the capital.
Campaigner Darryl Chamberlain from the Not To Silvertown Tunnel group said: "Once again, Transport for London's pushing its toxic tunnel with no evidence to back up its wild claims that it'll reduce traffic congestion or boost our economy."
He went on: "This is the traffic equivalent of moving the deckchairs on the Titanic. Transport for London is deluded if it thinks the Silvertown Tunnel will cure congestion. There’s nothing in this for locals - it’ll just encourage Kent car commuters to drive to Canary Wharf.
"This £750m waste of money needs to be binned and the money put towards proper crossings for public transport, walking and cycling instead."
An application is set to be made to the government in 2015, with a four-year construction programme starting in 2017.
To have your say before the December 19 deadline, visit tfl.gov.uk/silvertown-tunnel from tomorrow (October 15).
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