Tunnel remaining shut for a week

The fire on Sunday destroyed the bus

A road tunnel partially closed after a bus caught fire will remain shut for at least a week, Transport for London (TfL) has said.

The Limehouse Link Tunnel closed on Sunday after the empty double-decker broke down and burst into flames.

TfL said the damage is "extensive" and that the eastbound carriage is unlikely to re-open until after the weekend.

The closure of the tunnel, which links the Docklands to central London, has been causing major delays in the area.

Traffic is being diverted from Tower Bridge and Lower Thames Street via Mansell Street and the Aldgate one-way system but drivers are being urged to avoid the area.

Key artery

TfL's Peter Brown said: "This is a key artery for London.

"We are working flat out to ascertain the full extent of damage and necessary repairs to enable the tunnel to re-open as soon as possible - but clearly safety has to be our priority."

He said engineers were still not sure if there has been any structural damage but re-surfacing work and new lighting were needed.

The bus driver managed to escape unhurt.