Bear Scotland workers' pay dispute resolved

Unite said strike action could potentially have disrupted traffic on the A9

A pay dispute involving Inverness-based road maintenance workers at Bear Scotland has been resolved, says their union.

The workers voted in favour of strike action last month, a move Unite said could potentially disrupt traffic on the A9 between Perth and Inverness.

Unite said it had negotiated a union recognition agreement and pay increases up to 7.25% as well as improvements to standby payments.

Bear Scotland said it was pleased its proposal had been accepted.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "Unite's members working for Bear Scotland based in Inverness took a brave stand against their company by being prepared to take strike action if necessary.

"It has ultimately delivered not only a good pay deal but union recognition with Bear Scotland."

Bear Scotland said the dispute had involved a small number of workers who had raised concerns.

A spokesperson said: "As we previously stated, we believe that the pay increase implemented in April 2025 is fair and competitive and this has been agreed with the union, in addition to the ongoing further refinements of benefits.

"We continually review our pay and benefits package to ensure our employees are recognised for the valuable contribution they make."