Thames lock keepers suspend strike after new offer

Weir and lock keepers along the River Thames have suspended strike action following a last-minute offer from the Environment Agency (EA).

Members of the GMB Union had been set to strike after 90% voted in favour of industrial action over safety concerns caused by staff shortages.

"Work to rule" action had also been due to begin on Tuesday, but that has now been delayed following an updated offer from the EA.

The EA said it welcomed the lock keepers' decision "to stand down from action".

GMB confirmed the new deal would see at least 80 staff on the river during the summer - 28 more than are currently employed.

Kevin Brandstatter, GMB national officer, said: "It's good the Environment Agency has pledged more staff and appears to value these hard-working professionals."

He said the union would now "examine the finer points of the offer" with members before "deciding on next steps".

"The last thing our River Thames weir and lock keepers wanted to do was take industrial action, but they were worried about the safety of the public – and themselves," he added.

There are currently 52 trained staff employed by the EA along the length of the river.

The GMB Union previously said that figure should be 90 during peak season.

An EA spokesperson said: "Following negotiations with our lock keepers over recent weeks, we have agreed a staffing level that ensures the continued safe operation of locks and weirs and the safety of river users.

"We are committed to continuing to work with and listen to them to modernise the service we offer."

There are 45 non-tidal locks on the River Thames, including Osney and Iffley in Oxfordshire, Caversham and Shiplake in Berkshire and others in Buckinghamshire, Surrey and Greater London.

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