Victor Jack

LONDON, (Reuters) – Central London businesses and shops hoping for a boost due to Black Friday sales were affected by the disruption of London’s tube system as drivers staged their largest strike since 2018.

The strike, which began at 0430 GMT, saw the Piccadilly and Waterloo lines suspended, Waterloo, City and Northern lines delayed, as well as delays to the Jubilee and Central lines.

Transport for London (TfL), stated that 58% of the services it offers are currently being run.

Following disagreements with TfL’s plan to have tube driver shifts during the night, thousands of Rail, Maritime and Transport union members walked out.

TfL had dedicated drivers for Night Tube on the following lines. TfL also shut down the Waterloo line and City line, which shares drivers with many other Central line stations.

During the pandemics, Saturday and Friday Night Tube services were cut off. The service was scheduled to resume on Saturday with limited services.

Joe Swaffham (36) commutes from North Greenwich and Moorgate for work. His journey takes twice as long and leaves him late by 45 minutes.

“Commuters were being less forgiving when trying to get on trains and I got pushed two-throw down the platform – luckily the Jubilee line has a glass wall for safety,” he said.

He said, “But I believe the train workers shouldn’t be forced to work hours they haven’t signed up for.”

Central London shops said that the strike might affect sales on Black Friday which is one of the most busy shopping days of year.

“The timing of the strike is particularly disappointing and is a real kick in the teeth for Central London’s hospitality and retail sector,” said Ros Morgan, Chief Executive Heart of London Business Alliance, which represents 500 businesses in London’s West End.

TfL stated that they do not intend to meet with RMT leaders. A spokesperson stated that they were open to talks but had not made any concrete plans.