Lewisham Parking Staff Begin Further Strike Action Over Pay

Lewisham Parking Enforcement Strike Dates Announced for September and October

Lewisham Parking Staff Begin Further Strike Action Over Pay Dispute Parking enforcement staff working for private contractor NSL in Lewisham have begun further strike action as their dispute over pay continues, according to UNISON. The latest walkouts began on Monday 21 September and are scheduled to continue on 22 and 25 September, with additional strike dates planned throughout October. The workers provide parking enforcement services on behalf of Lewisham Council and are employed by NSL, rather than directly by the council. According to UNISON, the staff are paid £1.70 less per hour than NSL employees carrying out the same job in neighbouring Camden and Westminster. The union says the dispute has already resulted in three previous sets of strike dates, with the latest industrial action continuing despite what it describes as progress in negotiations. NSL has recently signed a recognition agreement with UNISON, which gives the union a formal role in representing the workers. However, UNISON says the company has not yet agreed to substantive talks over the difference in pay between Lewisham staff and workers carrying out similar parking enforcement roles elsewhere in London. UNISON London regional organiser Rachael Johnson said the recognition agreement was a positive step but called on NSL to enter negotiations over pay. The union's latest strike dates include 21, 22 and 25 September, followed by further planned action on 5, 7, 8, 19, 20 and 23 October. A picket line is due to be in place at Eros House on Brownhill Road in Catford during each of the strike days, according to UNISON. Previous industrial action took place in July, including strikes on 3 July, 9–10 July and 15–17 July. For drivers and parking users in Lewisham, the dispute involves the staff responsible for carrying out parking enforcement across the borough. Any effect on enforcement activity may therefore be relevant to people parking on local roads and in areas subject to restrictions. The latest dispute also highlights the role of private contractors in delivering parking enforcement services for local authorities. With further strike dates already announced, the situation is set to continue into October. Drivers can reduce the risk of parking problems by checking restrictions before leaving their vehicle and making sure they are using permitted parking areas. Planning where to park in advance can also help when enforcement arrangements or local conditions are changing. EveryonesParking helps drivers find and plan parking before they travel, making it easier to identify suitable parking options instead of searching at the last minute.