Strike update: River Thames weir and lockkeepers have voted on strike action over safety concerns

Lockkeepers and weir operators along the River Thames have voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action, voicing serious safety concerns, writes Maisie Day.

Trade union GMB announced that more than 90 per cent of workers, employed by the Environment Agency, advocated for the walkout, with an exceptional turnout of 98 per cent.

It said that many felt that budget-focused decisions are endangering lives, as well as property.

Currently, only 52 permanent trained staff are maintaining operations along the river, a figure far below the approved levels.

The Environment Agency had planned to fill ten additional agency posts, but these positions remain vacant and are set to expire by the end of the year.

"Our River Thames weir and lockkeepers are passionate, dedicated workers," said GMB national officer Kevin Brandstatter.

“They live and work alongside river users and do not want to strike.

"But with 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.”

A 2008 assessment by the agency indicated that over 90 staff were required during peak season, highlighting the significant shortage in workforce numbers.

GMB representatives will now meet with members to determine their next steps, with industrial action potentially beginning as early as June.

The union insists that employees have done everything possible to ensure public safety despite staffing shortages but feel they have no choice but to strike to force action from the Environment Agency.