A formal consultation on the Silvertown Tunnel has been launched, as campaigners flatly rejected proposals.

Transport for London (TfL) is seeking feedback on plans to build a second tunnel beneath the Thames, linking the Greenwich Peninsula to the Royal Docks.

Running from today (October 5), the consultation on the £1bn scheme will end on November 29.

Backed by the Mayor, the development would see a dual carriageway of two lanes each built.

Both the existing Blackwall Tunnel and the Silvertown Tunnel - which could open by 2022 - would be tolled.

But Green assembly member Darren Johnson, chair of the environment committee on the GLA (Greater London Assembly) said: “Londoners should respond to TfL’s consultation with a resounding ‘no’ to the toxic air pollution and traffic it will produce."

MORE TOP STORIES Darryl Chamberlain, co-founder of the No to Silvertown Tunnel, has claimed the plans - which include a dedicated lane for HGVs, coaches and buses - will increase pollution.

He said: "It’ll increase traffic across a great swathe of London, it won’t cut pollution, and it’ll worsen traffic jams both north and south of the river."

TfL claims the link will reduce congestion at the Blackwall Tunnel and boost economic activity.

The Mayor also welcomed the project being classed as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project.

He previously 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.

“Unless new river crossings are provided, the huge growth potential of east London will not be realised.”

To view the consultation visit consultations.tfl.gov.uk/rivercrossings/silvertown/