River Thames weir and lock keepers to strike over safety concerns

River Thames weir and lock keepers employed by the Environment Agency are set to strike over safety concerns, the GMB Union has said.

More than 90 per cent voted to strike over ‘budget-driven decisions’, which are ‘putting people and property at risk’, on a 98 per cent turnout.

GMB is now set to meet with members to discuss the next steps, with strikes possible as early as June.

The GMB said there are 52 permanent trained staff on the river, and there are 10 planned agency posts which expire at the end of the year but are yet to be filled.

According to a 2008 EA assessment, more than 90 staff were required during the peak season.

Kevin Brandstatter, GMB National Officer said: “Our River Thames weir and lockkeepers are passionate, dedicated workers. They live and work with River users and don’t want to go on strike.

“But there are only 52 staff doing the work of 90 - it’s just not safe.

“They’ve gone above and beyond backwards to keep people safe - but enough is enough.

"They have the support of boaters, river users, those who live on and by the river and hikers.

“They now feel withdrawing their labour is the only way to get their message across to the Environment Agency.”

An Environment Agency spokesperson, said: “The lock and weir keeper role is an important aid in maintaining the non-tidal Thames and allowing the public to enjoy our waterways.

“Their safety, and the safety of river users, is a top priority. 

 “We are committed to continuing to work with them and unions to update our ways of working so we can deliver more for our customers and river users, continue to manage our budget carefully, and avoid industrial action, while ensuring the wellbeing of staff.

“To be clear, we have not proposed any cuts to jobs or services – and we will provide further detail on our approach to modernising navigation on the Thames in due course.”