The workers at Atomik Architecture are calling for a pay increase, reduced working hours, flexible working arrangements, paid training, and trade union recognition.

The United Voices of the World – Section of Architectural Workers (UVW-SAW), the union representing the workers, said some workers individually raised the matter of pay in their annual reviews back in June. When they were ignored, they wrote a collective letter outlining their demands.

The union has also accused bosses at the architectural practice of responding to the letter by triggering a redundancy consultation and refusing to postpone a meeting called for this week to give the workers and their union time to prepare for the consultation.

In a joint statement issued by Atomik workers, the staff said: “We are disappointed that Atomik has continuously dismissed and ignored our individual and collective concerns. We were expecting to collaborate to improve conditions at the practice but instead, we have had months of empty promises and zero progress. We have all worked at Atomik for a number of years, but that loyalty has not been reciprocated in meaningful improved pay or working conditions. We have been forced into this position, striking is our last resort.”

Petros Elia, general secretary of UVW, said: “We believe our members at Atomik are the first ever group of private sector architects to ballot to strike, so if this strike goes ahead it will be an industry first, and one that all architects and members of the movement should get behind.

“UVW has shown yet again that there is no group of workers who are unorganisable, and whether you are an architect or a cleaner, you have the power and every reason to unite, fight and strike. I call on Atomik’s bosses to negotiate with us and avoid what could become incredibly operationally and reputationally damaging strike action which will receive the full support of our union.”

Atomik Architecture has been contacted for a response.