Travel and conditions concerns

Management have responded on relocation under the South East Review.

The unions have received a response to their letter requesting further information on the terms and conditions of the South East review. Management has confirmed that the BBC would expect Elstree staff to work at Marylebone High Street and Chatham staff to work from Tunbridge Wells.

Travel expenses

The allowances provision which will be applied will be the "Excess Travel Allowance" which, for a period of 18 months, reimburses individuals whose journey to the new base is more expensive than the old one.

The unions met with Laura Dalgleish (HRLP SE), Alistair Currie, Steve Taschini (Editor BBC Kent) and Mike Lucas (Personnel) at Chatham in October and noted that staff had received information on the allowance.

A small working party had been established which included members of staff. Management confirmed that some jobs would still be required at Chatham and the unions asked that people who would experience severe difficulties or hardship in travelling to Tunbridge Wells should be given serious consideration for these. A further meeting concerning the new London area is scheduled for mid-December.

Crèche facilities

Management is investigating options. As GLR will decant into Bush House at the end of November, it hoped to be able to use some of the available spaces in the Bush House nursery. The unions have expressed concerns that staff travelling into London from Elstree might experience difficulties. Further discussions will take place on this issue.

Car parking

Management does not believe individuals will use their cars to travel to the extent they do currently as the nature of commuting in the capital is so different. However, the excess fares provision will apply (see above). At Tunbridge Wells, car parking will be available close to the new premises which are located opposite the station.

Hours/Days conditions

Management's long-term intention is to achieve a "harmonisation of conditions of service arrangements subject to ensuring operational flexibility". It recognises that, in the short and medium term, there is a need to address the individual conditions of service and salary management expectations of those Production Services England staff who will work under new arrangements. This will be discussed at a later date.