Bus strikes called off in Birkenhead, Chorley and Preston after pay deal victory
In Preston and Chorley, workers will receive a 6.4% increase
Strikes by around 500 bus drivers in Birkenhead, Chorley and Preston have been called off after workers secured what their union described as an “inflation-busting” pay rise.
Drivers in Birkenhead will see their hourly pay rise by 10.2% over two years, increasing from £14.94 to £16.50.
In Preston and Chorley, workers will receive a 6.4% increase over one year, with hourly wages moving from £15.50 to £16.50.
The deals, which are backdated to 1 April 2025, were accepted following a vote by members of Unite, Britain and Ireland’s largest trade union.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham hailed the result, saying: “Bus drivers do an incredibly difficult job and by standing together in their union these workers secured a pay rise that reflects that.
"Once again, Unite’s relentless focus on jobs, pay and conditions is putting money in our members’ pockets.”
Unite regional officer Mike Woods also praised the outcome, adding: “Well done to our reps and members. Without their hard work and solidarity, this deal could not have been achieved.
"This result is another reminder that those who want better wages and working lives should join Unite and organise their colleagues to join too.”
All planned strike action has now been cancelled following the agreements.