Stockport bus strike called off after agreement reached on pay

Strike action by Stagecoach bus drivers in Stockport and across South Manchester has been called off after a new pay agreement was reached.

Trade union, Unite, had postponed upcoming industrial action (which would have seen the majority of bus services in Stockport cancelled) while members were balloted on an improved pay offer from Stagecoach. Both new and established bus drivers will receive an above-inflation pay rise of approximately 16% under the new deal. Drivers will also receive an improved pay offer for weekend and bank holiday working.

In a statement on the Stagecoach Greater Manchester website, the bus company said:

“We are pleased to advise customers that following constructive talks with Unite the Union, all the proposed strike days have been postponed.”

Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary, said:

“Unite has fought tirelessly for a better pay deal for our members. Our relentless focus on the jobs, pay and conditions for the bus drivers at Stagecoach, allied with their grit and determination, has led to this important win.”

Elsewhere in Greater Manchester, pay disputes continue between Unite and FirstGroup, with a number of strike days planned for early September which will affect bus passengers primarily in North Manchester, Oldham and parts of Tameside. Further information on affected services can be found on the TfGM website.

Unite north-west regional officer, Colin Hayden, added:

“I’m delighted for our members who have fought tirelessly for a better pay deal – they should be congratulated on their resolve. While Stagecoach drivers will head back to work, the pressure is now on First Manchester to head back to the negotiating table with an improved offer – our members there will be looking at the victory secured here and demanding the same.”