Some Idverde staff who provide grounds maintenance and horticultural services on behalf of the council, are taking part in strike action (Monday 23rd October 2023 – Sunday 29th October 2023 and Wednesday 1st November – Sunday 5th November 2023) across Merton, 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. Sports bookings will go-ahead and courts will be open.
Council officers will continue to monitor service levels over the strike period, and will ensure the contingency plans are delivered and that we hold Idverde to the high standards expected.
To report a maintenance or litter problem in a park or recreation ground in Merton, click here.