The Silvertown Tunnel scheme will “create far more problems than it solves”, according to a campaign group aiming to put a stop to the plans.

The ‘No To Silvertown Tunnel’ group has stepped up its efforts against a tunnel being built to connect the Royal Docks to the Blackwall Tunnel approach at North Greenwich.

The group is currently awaiting the results of air pollution tests which have been carried out on both sides of the river including around the Royal Docks, Plaistow and East Ham in areas which Newham Council doesn’t cover.

Similar tests measuring nitrogen dioxide levels last summer showed air pollution levels “broke European limits”.

Committee member Darryl Chamberlain, said: “People think that new roads will make things better but actually they just generate more traffic because they fill up again.

“Take the M25, as soon as you build another lane, there is more traffic.”

He says improving public transport would be a much better alternative as it is more likely to bring people together.

“If you are looking at ways to regenerate an area, public transport is key,” Darryl said. “It is the Jubilee line and the DLR which has made a difference to the area and the Crossrail will continue the good work.”

He says many residents have only heard one side of the story and are therefore unaware of the additional pollution and congestion the proposal would cause.

The group are now planning events in the community to pass on their message and canvas support.

Newham Council launched its campaign for more river crossing January last year in collaboration with Greenwich Council, claiming the Silvertown Tunnel would provide relief to traffic at the Blackwall Tunnel and support the development of Royal Docks and Greenwich.