Bus strikes called off after new pay offer

Bus driver strikes affecting Stagecoach services across Stockport and South Manchester in August and September have been called off.

Bus operator, Stagecoach, has offered drivers an alternative pay offer amid the dispute, with trade union Unite announcing it will suspend industrial action while members are balloted on whether to accept the new offer. Drivers have previously rejected two pay offers from the bus operator, resulting in four days of strikes that ended earlier this week (11th to 14th August). Details of the latest offer have not been published.

Lee Wasnidge, Managing Director of Stagecoach Manchester, said:

“The management team at Stagecoach have been working hard to agree an industry leading pay settlement, so it’s great to see we’re taking steps in the right direction.

“This updated offer would make our drivers amongst the best paid in the region and really goes to show just how much we value their longstanding commitment and loyalty. 

“We apologise to local residents and customers for the disruption over the last weekend.”

While further industrial action on Stagecoach services, the dominant bus operator in Stockport and South Manchester, has been averted, First Group drivers at depots in Rochdale, Oldham, Manchester and Ashton will continue to strike.

Unite Regional Officer, Colin Hayden, said:

“As an act of good faith we have suspended strike action while our members consider the new pay offer from Stagecoach.

“I urge First Manchester to do likewise – get back round the negotiating table and give our members the pay rise they deserve.”