Woolwich Ferry workers could be going on strike amid continuing delays to the relaunch of the service.

Staff on the ferries, that are used by an estimated 2.6 million passengers a year, are holding a ballot for strike action over pay, health and safety and lack of staffing.

The service was suspended in October as Transport for London carried out improvement works on the piers and replace the old boats with two new ferries.

It was meant to start back up again in December, but has been pushed back for a couple of months

A limited service began at end of January, but was stopped again as more testing was needed .

The union Unite represents 31 workers employed by Briggs Marine Contractors Ltd, who will be balloted for strike action from February 14.

The ballot will close on March 6.

Two years ago, there was a long-running dispute at the ferry with the same employer, which runs the service on behalf of Transport for London, over an alleged bullying culture and health and safety issues.

Unite regional officer Onay Kasab said: “The travelling public who use the ferry may well think Groundhog Day has arrived with yet another dispute with the management at Briggs Marine Contractors Ltd.

“The ballot starts on Valentine’s Day, but I can assure you that our members have little love for the management which appears not to have learnt the lessons from the dispute two years ago."