Cambridgeshire facing bus standstill as Stagecoach workers ballot for strike action
Bus services across Cambridgeshire are facing a standstill as 350 Stagecoach workers ballot for strike action over pay, the Unite union said today.
The drivers and engineers have rejected a two-year pay deal that they say does not reflect the rising cost of living and the demands of the job.
Stagecoach made operating profits of £97.3 million in the year to April 2024 on sales of £1.6 billion, says Unite.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Stagecoach makes huge profits and can absolutely afford to table an improved pay offer - this is what needs to happen. Unite backs Stagecoach’s Cambridgeshire workforce 100% in their demands for a fair pay rise.”
The workers, who earn just £15.60 an hour, have been offered a two-year pay deal of four per cent in year one and three per cent in year two.
The ballot for strike action closes on November 19. Industrial action would severely impact bus services across the whole of Cambridgeshire in the run-up to Christmas.
Unite regional officer Mark Plumb said: “There is still time for Stagecoach to avoid industrial action, but that requires the company putting forward an acceptable deal to our members.”
Darren Roe, managing director of Stagecoach East, said: "We are aware that Unite are asking their members if they wish to take part in industrial action. The ballot ends on November 19.
“Our teams in Cambridge were offered 4% in year one, with a 3% increase in year two, with additional annual leave for those with longer service.
“In Peterborough, our teams were offered 4.31% in year one and 3.28% in year two, with the same offer for additional annual leave.
“We are committed to offering good pay packages for our people. We believe our rates of pay, terms and conditions remain at the top end of the local market for bus drivers, and we are always open to talks with Unite.
“However, at the same time, we must think about the future of the bus network and the implications that higher pay demands have on our loyal customers.”
Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Paul Bristow, said: “I know how important reliable bus services are for people right across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.
“They’re a lifeline for those travelling to work, school, and other essential appointments. Particularly as we head into the Christmas period, any disruption to these services would have an impact on people relying on buses.
“Although this dispute is between the operators and their employees, I will be seeking assurances from Stagecoach that contingency plans are in place to protect passengers and ensure our communities’ needs are being met.”