Transport for London (TfL) has unveiled a major new strategy to combat a surge in graffiti across the London Underground, awarding a comprehensive five-year cleaning contract to facilities management firm Mitie.
A Data-Driven Crackdown on Vandalism
The new deal, which commences immediately, establishes a dedicated 24/7 team specifically tasked with tackling graffiti on trains and across the network. This move follows significant public concern and a high-profile dispute last summer between TfL and vigilante cleaners who took matters into their own hands.
Under the agreement, Mitie will lead what TfL describes as an "intelligence-led and data-driven" cleaning service. The contract scope is extensive, covering:
- Cleaning of all Tube trains and buses
- Cleaning of Tube and bus stations
- Waste management and pest control services
More than 2,000 workers will be employed to maintain the transport network, with Mitie mandated to ensure all staff receive at least the London Living Wage and enhanced sick pay.
From Social Media Spat to Strategic Pilot
The contract announcement comes after a contentious period where videos circulated on social media showing members of the public cleaning graffiti from train interiors. This led to a public spat between these vigilantes and TfL Commissioner Andy Lord, who later retracted an accusation and apologised in December 2025.
In a significant parallel development, TfL has committed to exploring the potential for bringing cleaning services back in-house. Mayor of London Sadiq Khan expressed his delight at this pilot, stating: "I have long championed insourcing where possible... as we continue working to build a fairer and more prosperous London for everyone."
Patrick Doig, TfL's Director of Group Procurement and Contracts, confirmed: "Following a competitive tendering process, we’re delighted to award Mitie this new contract. In addition, to better understand how we could deliver affordable cleaning services in-house, we plan to work with the successful bidder on a comprehensive pilot."
A New Chapter for Network Cleanliness
Mitie is not a new partner for TfL, having held the organisation's security services contract since 2017. The new cleaning deal represents a substantial expansion of their role in maintaining the capital's transport infrastructure.
The establishment of a round-the-clock graffiti response team signals a clear shift in TfL's approach, moving from reactive cleaning to a proactive, targeted strategy. The focus on data and intelligence suggests efforts will be concentrated on problem hotspots and repeat offenders.
While the financial details of the five-year contract remain confidential, the scale of the workforce and the 24/7 nature of the service indicate a significant investment by TfL. The transport body and Mitie will now work with trade unions to finalise the details of the in-house services pilot, with further announcements expected in due course.
