Some idverde staff who provide grounds maintenance and horticultural services on behalf of the council, are starting two days of strike action today (Tuesday 30 May and Wednesday 31 May) across Merton and Sutton, as part of an internal pay dispute with idverde.

The strike is being held by GMB members and it relates to pay for supervisory staff across the contract covering Sutton and Merton.

The strike action involves idverde staff working across service areas including open spaces maintenance, parks litter collection, cemeteries and burials and grass cutting.

However, the council contract ensures that a contingency plan is in place to cover essential and high-priority services.

We have a full contingency of staff covering burials and cemetery services, which are operating as usual.  

Plans are in place to maintain essential services in parks and open spaces, including emptying litter bins and playground checks.  

Council officers will continue to monitor service levels over today and tomorrow, and will ensure the contingency plans are delivered and that we hold idverde to the high standards expected.

If you see any issues, please report them via the website at https://fixmystreet.merton.gov.uk/