Overtime Row Sparks Industrial Action on Windrush Line

Strike action is set to hit the Windrush Line this week after talks between Cleshar CS Ltd and the RMT union failed to produce an improved pay offer.

Signalling, telecoms and track maintenance staff have been offered a 1.5 per cent increase in basic pay — a figure the union says falls well below RPI inflation. Despite further discussions, the company has not revised the proposal, prompting union members to walk out.

Union representatives argue that keeping base salaries low is fuelling reliance on overtime across the workforce, contributing to fatigue among staff in safety-critical roles. They warn that such conditions create unacceptable risks and could potentially compromise passenger safety.

The dispute also centres on claims of underpayment for overtime and annual leave, as well as reductions to sick pay and paternity pay compared with arrangements under the previous contractor. The union says the company is depending heavily on overtime rather than addressing pay expectations and staffing levels.

Industrial action is scheduled for Thursday 26 February, Thursday 26 March and Thursday 23 April 2026. Each stoppage will last 24 hours. The workers involved undertake safety-critical duties, and without them, the Windrush Line cannot operate safely.

Cleshar CS Ltd reported a profit of £991,915 in its most recent financial year.

RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey said:

“Cleshar has failed to table a new offer and has left our members with no option but to take strike action. Instead of addressing low basic pay, the company is driving excessive overtime to keep the job covered. The employer is displaying a cavalier attitude which is totally unacceptable. We remain ready to reach a negotiated settlement, but that requires Cleshar to come forward with a serious and reasonable offer.”

Image: Transport for London