Plans to launch an all-night Tube service in London on September 12 have been deferred.
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It is likely to run around the clock on Friday and Saturday nights on the Jubilee, Victoria, and most of the Central, Northern and Piccadilly lines.
Union members previously staged two 24-hour strikes during a lengthy negotiation period.
In a statement, London Underground said it wanted to conclude the talks and avoid further strikes.
“However, as we continue discussions with our trade unions on rosters this means that it will not now be possible to agree these and communicate them to staff in time for the Night Tube to be launched on 12 September”.
Earlier this week strike action was suspended, with Unite saying that it was a “gesture of goodwill” to allow further talks to be held.
The 24-hour service, when it eventually goes ahead, is expected to provide a boon to London’s nighttime economy.
Mick Whelan, general secretary of the drivers’ union Aslef, said: “We welcome this decision by London Underground, which gives us all the time and space to negotiate properly on the introduction of the night Tube in the capital. It has to be done in a way that works for London Underground, for passengers, and also for the drivers who deliver this service every day”.
It was announced by Mayor Boris Johnson and then Tube boss Mike Brown, now acting TfL Commissioner, in November 2013. The strikes brought chaos to London’s transportation system.
London First, an organisation that aims to improve business in London conducted research into the economic benefits of the Night Tube and found the new service will boost jobs and help maintain London’s status as a vibrant and exciting place to live, work and visit.
She said: “By pushing for a set start date the mayor strengthened the union’s negotiating position”.
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If “never taking the night bus ever again” was on your wish list for mid-September, think again.
