Gardeners at Royal Parks begin vote on strike action

Dozens of gardeners working at The Royal Parks are today voting in a strike ballot organised by their union, GMB, following a row over pay.

The workers, who are employed by sub-contractor Idverde, look after some of London's most prestigious parks including Kensington Gardens, St James's Park, Hyde Park, and Brompton Cemetery.

The dispute arose after skilled gardeners and team leaders were offered a pay rise amounting to just 70p an hour.

Such a small rise in pay will see a significant narrowing of the gap between these senior workers and those on London Living Wage (LLW), suggesting that Idverde is treating LLW as a ceiling rather than a floor. GMB members have already indicated their willingness to take strike action after voting in 85 per cent in favour in a consultative ballot.

The ballot closes on Friday 14 August.

A GMB member working at The Royal Parks said:

"We are not asking for anything outrageous, just a fair increase.

"The cost of getting into work is getting more and more and all your other bills too.

"We are low paid workers trying to survive in central London."

Anna Lee, GMB Regional Organiser, said:

"These staff are responsible for ensuring the parks remain valuable and beloved open spaces for the public enjoy.

"Our members are highly experienced and qualified gardeners, who deserve a fair uplift that reflects the value of their skillset. "The difference between these higher paid workers and those on London Living Wage is 55p.

"London Living Wage should be seen as starting point for salaries, but by failing to maintain a fair pay differential, Idvere is treating it more like a ceiling."