Bus drivers in Doncaster to walk out later this month and in April
It's in a dispute over pay
Bus services in Doncaster are facing disruption later this month and next month, as over 230 drivers have voted to take industrial action over pay.
Drivers at First South Yorkshire claim their counterparts in Sheffield, some 20 miles away, are getting better pay.
The strikes are set to occur on 28th and 30th March, as well as on 7th, 22nd, and 24th April.
These dates include the Easter break and major events at Doncaster Racecourse.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "First can well afford to pay its drivers in Doncaster the same as those in Sheffield, but is instead choosing to put profits over people by pursuing an unfair two-tier system for its workers.
"Unite members in Doncaster deserve to be paid more fairly and they have our full backing during this dispute."
Zoe Hands, Managing Director of First Bus Manchester, Midlands & South Yorkshire, said:
“We are very disappointed and saddened at the decision to go ahead with strikes.
“Industrial action will be damaging to everyone and cause severe disruption to the daily lives of our customers who rely on the bus to get to work, education and for appointments.
“We have met repeatedly with Unite representatives over the past six months and made numerous offers in our attempts to find an agreement.”
The latest pay offer from First Bus is includes an immediate seven per cent pay increase, more than double the current inflation rate, backdated to January 2026, and would deliver an overall 18 per cent pay rise by July 2027.
Zoe Hands said: “This offer is among the best driver pay deals this year. We believe this reflects the vital role our drivers play while ensuring we can continue to provide reliable services for the thousands of people in Doncaster who depend on us every day.”
She added: “We fully recognise the strength of feeling of colleagues in Doncaster and we remain committed to working constructively with Union representatives to reach a fair and sustainable agreement.
“We are proud to provide industry-leading terms and conditions and have made significant investments to enhance working environments and colleague benefits.
“Our door remains open to continue discussions and avoid unnecessary industrial action.”