Gardeners working at some of London's most famous parks will strike in a dispute over pay, after voting 95% in favour of industrial action. The workers, employed by sub-contractor Idverde for The Royal Parks – which includes Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and St James's Park – cast their ballots with a 75% turnout, according to the GMB union.
Pay offer described as 'an insult'
The dispute centres on a proposed pay increase of 70p an hour for skilled gardeners and team leaders. The GMB union has called the offer "an insult", noting that workers are currently paid 55p an hour above the London Living Wage. The union accuses Idverde of failing to recognise and value the skills and experience of its workforce, and of treating the London Living Wage as a maximum rather than a minimum.
Anna Lee, GMB's regional organiser, said: "Our members create and maintain these amazing spaces and to be offered 70p is just an insult. They are skilled, experienced professionals and they know what their labour is worth. We're calling on Idverde to get back round the table and offer our members a fair pay deal."
Royal Parks responds
A spokesperson for The Royal Parks said: "Idverde and its workforce make a valued and important contribution to the day-to-day management of the parks, helping to ensure that they remain high-quality, welcoming and well-maintained spaces for the millions of people who visit them each year. The terms and conditions of employment are a matter for Idverde as the employer. The Royal Parks is not party to those employment arrangements. We recognise that this is a matter of concern for those involved and hope that a constructive resolution can be reached through ongoing discussions between Idverde and its employees."
Idverde has been contacted for comment. The strike action is set to affect the maintenance of these iconic green spaces, which attract millions of visitors annually. The GMB union is urging Idverde to return to negotiations and present a revised offer that reflects the workers' skills and experience.
