Transport for London says it is operating a “normal timetable” on the Windrush line today, despite a one-day strike by staff providing maintenance for signalling, communications and other essential safety features.

‘Normal service’: TfL says the Windrush line is operating today, despite an RMT strike

The Overground line from West Croydon and Norwood Junction that serves Crystal Palace, New Cross, and north into east London, has been hit by industrial action by members of the RMT rail workers’ union employed by outsourcing firm Cleshar CS Ltd.

Cleshar provides track, signalling and telecoms maintenance on the Overground between Dalston Junction and New Cross Gate.

TfL says that it has contingency arrangements in place in case of faults on that section of the route during the strike.

RMT said Cleshar staff had been offered a 1.5% pay rise, well below inflation, and said the company had not improved its offer despite talks. The union said that low basic pay was encouraging excessive overtime and contributing to fatigue among staff in safety-critical roles.

RMT claims that staff have experienced underpayment of overtime, as well as changes to sick pay and paternity pay compared with arrangements under the previous contractor.

RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey said: “Cleshar has failed to table a new offer and has left our members with no option but to take strike action.

“We remain ready to reach a negotiated settlement, but that requires Cleshar to come forward with a serious and reasonable offer.”

Further strikes are planned for March 26 and April 23.

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