Refuse workers in Dartford to hold strike vote over low pay offer

Employees reject 3.4% pay rise, seeking better conditions

Author: Maria GreenwoodPublished 6th Mar 2026

Refuse workers in Dartford are set to vote on striking after rejecting a pay increase they deem insufficient.

More than 45 staff employed by FCC will participate in the vote, with details set to be confirmed soon.

The frustration among the workers stems from a 3.4% pay rise proposal which was turned down by 92% of the workforce.

Craig Prickett, a GMB Organiser, highlighted the disparity in wages, stating that refuse workers in Dartford are paid less compared to those in nearby regions.

GMB Union is prepared to negotiate, urging FCC to return to discussions with an offer that properly acknowledges the hard work of its employees and aligns their pay with similar refuse contracts.

FCC has been approached for a comment.

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