There have been rumours floating around for years, but the rumours could finally be true. Yes, the fabled night tube may become a reality.
The night tube was set to begin running at the weekends last September but because of pay disputes with the unions, they were unable to commence. It has been recently announced that the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union executive is happy with the proposed agreement. It includes pay raises above inflation, since last April, as well as £500 bonuses for drivers and staff for the successful introduction of the project.
With this agreement in place, it gives rise to the hope that Londoners will be able to experience the realities of having a 24-hour tube service. As long as the Union’s members accept the agreement, a huge obstacle will have been overcome. But before we get too excited, there are three smaller unions involved that have not come to any terms with the London Underground.
This dispute has been on-going with the unions concerned for the safety of their employees as well as trying to make sure they get fair pay and continue to as long as the night service runs.
A night tube service would benefit not only the late night revellers, but also those employed in the hospitality sector. It has been heard many times that it would save much time and effort to be able to take the tube instead of the night bus home.
We will keep our fingers crossed and hope that the RMT votes the agreement in and the other unions follow suit.
