Parking enforcement officers in a borough of southeast London have decided to strike after turning down a proposed wage increase of 50 pence per hour.

Members of the GMB union, who work in Bromley, voted unanimously in favor of industrial action after 97% rejected the offer from the parking company APCOA.

Currently, traffic wardens in Bromley earn £12.21 per hour, which is below the London Living Wage of £13.85. APCOA’s proposal would have raised their wages to £12.71 an hour.

The GMB union declared it would issue notice for industrial action unless APCOA and Bromley Council, which contracts out its parking enforcement to APCOA, present a “meaningful, backdated pay proposal.”

Some traffic wardens expressed dissatisfaction not only with the proposed pay but also with APCOA’s response to the potential strike. One officer told the Local Democracy Reporting Service, “Management is attempting to sow division among us and even suggested they might bring in workers from other contracts if we proceed with action. This only strengthens our resolve to unite.”

Another officer pointed out that the lack of a backdated pay increase means, “Our supposed raise is effectively coming out of our own earnings.”

APCOA expressed disappointment over the rejection of its offer, stating, “We consider our proposition to be fair and are open to ongoing constructive dialogue to reach a resolution that prevents any disruption.”

Craig Prickett, the GMB regional organizer, emphasized that members are prepared to take action to secure the respect and fair compensation they deserve. “If substantial progress is not achieved, GMB will proceed to confirm strike dates in the near future.”

A spokesperson for Bromley Council expressed hope for a favorable resolution but indicated that the negotiations are primarily between the employer and employee representatives, not directly involving the council.