The Rail, Maritime and Transport Union (RMT) has recently confirmed that a series of strikes are set to take place on the London Overground over the next few months. I mean, those trusty trains continued to faithfully ferry us across the city during the plethora of Tube strikes that took place last year. So, I suppose it was only a matter of time before they had their moment.
Signalers and telecom staff are planning to walk out on three separate days across the next three months due to a dispute with a Transport for London sub-contractor. Here’s everything you need to know before the first strike-day rears its head next month.
When are the strikes set to happen?
The industrial action will place on three Thursdays between February and April. Each strike will last 24 hours and could have a knock-on effect to the running of the following morning trains. The dates in question are:
- Thursday, February 26
- Thursday, March 26
- Thursday, April 23
What lines will be affected by the strikes?
The only London Overground line expected to be impacted by the industrial strike action is the Windrush Line. This line whizzes Londoners from Highbury & Islington to Clapham Junction, West Croydon and Crystal Palace.
Why Are the strikes taking place?
The upcoming strikes comes following a dispute between the signalers and telecom staff and the subcontractor they work for, Cleshar CS Ltd. The workers are striking due to issues involving below inflation rate pay rises, overtime issues, annual leave pay, and unsatisfactory term and conditions compared to the previous contractor.
RMT may well reach an agreement with the company prior to the strike dates, meaning that they could be called off. If they do go ahead, however, Londoners will need to use local buses and alternative London Underground and Overground lines on the affected dates.
A Transport for London spokesperson said: “We urge the RMT and Cleshar CS Ltd to work together to resolve this dispute over pay and conditions. We are assessing the impact of potential strike action and are putting plans in place to help minimise any disruption for our customers”.