When London's Underground network faces industrial action, commuters often rely on the Overground as a vital alternative. However, that backup option will be compromised next month as signallers and telecom staff prepare to walk out, targeting a key Overground route.
Industrial Action Dates and Duration
The Rail, Maritime and Transport Union (RMT) has confirmed that its members will stage three separate 24-hour strikes on consecutive months. Each walkout is scheduled for a Thursday, with potential knock-on effects extending into the following Friday mornings.
The confirmed strike dates are:
- Thursday, February 26
- Thursday, March 26
- Thursday, April 23
Lines Affected by the Disruption
The industrial action will specifically impact the Windrush line, which serves commuters across several London boroughs. This line connects Highbury and Islington to Clapham Junction, West Croydon, and Crystal Palace.
Passengers who regularly use this route should prepare for significant service disruptions on the strike days, with possible residual effects the following mornings.
Causes Behind the Industrial Action
The striking workers are employed by subcontractor Cleshar CS Ltd, which provides signalling and telecommunications services for the Overground network. The dispute centres on several key issues that the RMT claims have left their members feeling undervalued.
Primary grievances include:
- A proposed pay increase of just 1.5 percent, which falls significantly below current inflation rates
- Disputes over overtime and annual leave payments
- Concerns that terms and conditions have deteriorated compared to those offered by previous contractors
Union and Management Responses
RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey expressed strong criticism of the current offer, stating: 'Our members have been insulted with such a derisory offer and have no choice but to take strike action. This company is highly profitable and can afford a decent offer for these safety-critical workers.'
Dempsey acknowledged the inconvenience to passengers but emphasised the workers' determination: 'Strike action would be disruptive and our members do not want to inconvenience passengers. But the company has a duty to pay our people properly and we will continue our campaign until we reach a negotiated settlement.'
Transport for London has responded cautiously to the announcement. A TfL spokesperson commented: '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.'
Alternative Travel Options
While the Windrush line faces disruption, London Underground services are expected to operate normally throughout the strike period. This provides affected passengers with alternative routes to reach their destinations, though they should anticipate increased crowding on parallel tube lines.
The RMT has indicated that negotiations could still lead to a resolution before the scheduled strike dates, potentially averting the industrial action entirely. However, commuters are advised to monitor official TfL announcements and plan their journeys accordingly during the affected periods.
