Metroline bus drivers go ahead with strikes

Bee Network bus drivers at Metroline depots across Greater Manchester have gone ahead with planned strikes, despite drivers at other operators in the city-region calling off industrial action.

Trade union, Unite, confirmed on Sunday that drivers at First and Stagecoach would suspend industrial action following revised pay offers from their employers. However, staff at Metroline have opted to continue with strikes, affecting services principally across Tameside, South Manchester and Trafford, as well as some routes in Stockport.

Strikes will affect 130 Bee Network bus routes operated by Metroline from Tuesday 30th September to Thursday 2nd October inclusive, with both regular and school services affected. Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is advising everyone to check before they travel and allow extra time to make their journey.

All trams, local trains, Local Link and Ring and Ride will operate as normal on the strike days, and there will be ticket acceptance on the Metrolink and some Northern and TransPennine Express train in affected areas.

A search function is available on the TfGM website for passengers to check if their service is affected, as well as the latest updates and route-specific information.

Danny Vaughan, TfGM’s Chief Network Officer, said:

“While we’re pleased First and Stagecoach staff have called off planned strikes, it’s disappointing that Metroline staff are continuing with industrial action this week. That’s despite the fact that a revised and improved offer was made by the operator. This will disrupt journeys in parts of Greater Manchester, with around 130 routes not expected to operate over the next three days.

“Our aim, as it has been throughout, is to keep passengers informed and support them to make journeys wherever possible. Anyone travelling over the next few days is encouraged to check before travelling, allow extra time for their journey and plan an alternative if your service is affected. The Bee Network website will be the best place to get the latest updates on services.”

Unite has previously indicated that industrial action will also happen on 10, 11, 13, 18, 23 and 24 October. This action could still take place, if pay negotiations are not concluded.