Threat of Chesterfield bin strikes averted after new pay deal

GMB Union said employees of Veolia environmental services had now accepted a 7.5% pay rise

Bin collectors in Chesterfield have accepted a 7.5% pay rise, ending the threat of industrial action.

In May, the GMB union said employees of Veolia environmental services may strike after rejecting a below inflation pay increase of 4.48%.

But the union has now announced staff have voted in favour of a deal it said was worth an extra £2 an hour.

Veolia said it was "pleased" an agreement has been reached recognising "the hard work of our teams".

'Real difference'

GMB official Deanne Ferguson said: "At a time when workers are feeling large financial pressures due to the cost-of-living crisis, I am pleased Veolia has listened to our members' requests.

"They've offered a pay rise which will make a real difference to their working lives.

"GMB members, some of the lowest paid in the country, were prepared to take strike action to secure a fair pay increase."

A Veolia spokesperson said: "We are pleased that an agreement has been reached between Veolia and the GMB Union in Chesterfield that recognises the hard work of our teams and means residents' recycling and waste services will continue as normal."