Build UK urges London contractors to stagger working times

Nick Dent, London Underground’s director of line operations said: “Three Jubilee trains serving Canning Town were unfortunately cancelled at short notice this morning due to staff absence, causing higher numbers of people to be waiting on platforms for a short amount of time. This morning’s video is not representative of the rest of the Tube network nor of this station for the rest of the day.

“We are going everything we can to help ensure those who need to travel for legally permitted reasons are able to do so in a safe way and maintain social distancing.”

TfL urged passengers to travel between 08:15 and 16:00 and after 17:30 on weekdays when services are quieter.

Meanwhile, Build UK said: “To relieve pressure on the tube and bus network, sites in London are being urged to introduce staggered start/finish times and to walk or cycle as part of their journey.

“Workers should be supported to avoid travelling during peak times of 05:45 - 08:15 and 16:00 – 17:30.”

Build UK’s comments follow a call by Construction Leadership co-chair Andy Mitchell for the construction industry to “critically challenge what works can genuinely not be done at home.”