Bus services across Telford under threat as workers strike over pay
The union says drivers have not had a pay rise during the last year
Last updated 4th Apr 2025
Bus services in Telford, Shropshire, could stop from next month, as over a hundred drivers ballot for strikes over pay, Unite has announced.
The union says drivers have not had a pay rise during the last year and currently earn £13.36 an hour – 11 per cent less than the West Midlands average of £14.93.
It also claims workers have also had years of below-inflation pay rises, leaving them feeling ‘shortchanged’ by their employer.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Many of the Unite members at Arriva Midlands have given years of service to the company, but their only reward has been below-inflation pay increases, which is making them poorer.
“This is completely unacceptable and it’s time they were paid fairly. The drivers have the full support of Unite during this dispute.”
The ballot closes on 17 April. If it is successful, industrial action could take place in early May.
Any strike action is said to have a serious impact on all bus services running in the Telford area.
Unite regional officer Stu Davis said: “Strike action will inevitably lead to severe disruption across the local bus network, however this is a dispute entirely of Arriva’s own making.
“The affected drivers have had years of being short changed and say enough is enough - they deserve a decent pay rise.
“Arriva Midlands can avoid strike action but it must come to the table with a fair offer our members can accept.”
In response, a spokesperson for Arriva Midlands said: "We’re aware that Unite plans to ballot its members about industrial action.
“We will continue to work with Unite and try our best to find a resolution."
ENDS