Bus drivers accept pay deal averting strike threat

Stagecoach Sunderland drivers previously took action over pay in 2022. The dispute was resolved in January this year

Hundreds of bus drivers in Sunderland have accepted a new pay deal, avoiding potential strike action.

About 200 Stagecoach North East workers in the city took part in a series of walkouts towards the end of last year, in a previous dispute over pay.

The bus operator said "now was the right time" to put forward a new pay offer, which will ultimately see salaries rise from £13.57 to £14.86 per hour.

It comes as 1,300 Go North East staff agreed to end indefinite strike action, after voting to accept a rise earlier this month.

More than 200 people work at the bus depot in Sunderland

Workers at the Monkwearmouth depot will receive a 4.4% rise to £14.17 from 7 January, followed by a further 4.8% increase, to £14.86, from 2 June.

Staff received an 11% rise in January this year, along with a £150 bonus, following a lengthy dispute.

The latest pay offer was not subject to a dispute, but if the pay deal offered had been rejected by its members, the GMB Union could have initiated a ballot on industrial action, it is understood.

Stagecoach North East managing director Steve Walker said there had been "no necessity" to offer a new deal and suggested pay would be among the highest in the region.

"We have always tried to ensure our staff are fairly rewarded for the roles they perform, and where possible be industry-leading," he said.

Mr Walker previously got behind the wheel himself as a Stagecoach driver, after services across Wearside were brought to a halt during last year's walkouts.