Unions threaten fresh tube strike action over potential depot demolition

Another London Underground strike could be on the horizon as a row ignites between rail trade unions and Transport for London.

A major housing project that’s set to take over the space currently occupied by Earls Court Exhibition Centre may also see the demolition of the Lillie Road tube depot, which sits in the same space. However, TfL have said that “no decision has been made” on the future of the facility.

The Rail, Maritime and Transport union says more than 400 maintenance engineers have been caught in the crossfire of plans for the regeneration. They will ballot their members for strike action over the impact that the closure could have on jobs.

RMT general secretary Mick Cash said: “The livelihoods and jobs of all RMT members at Lillie Road is under severe threat. The bulldozing through of these plans is at the clear expense of local tenants, residents and the jobs of RMT members affected by the accompanying demolition of Lillie Bridge depot.”

Talks will begin between TfL and the RMT union as soon as plans have been clarified, so watch this space for more information.

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