Bus drivers in Huddersfield plan strikes over pay disputes, causing major disruptions.
Around 170 drivers from First Bus will walk out in February and March. They rejected a pay deal that would raise their wages to $15.43 an hour by April 2025.
The deal included gradual pay increases throughout 2024. However, drivers in other areas of West Yorkshire already earn over $15 an hour.
Unite union’s Darren Rushworth said First Bus is to blame for the upcoming disruptions. He believes they could resolve this by offering a fair pay deal.
The rejected deal would tie drivers into a long pay agreement from April 2024 to 2026. The union fears this would leave their wages behind their colleagues.
Strikes are set for February 3-16 and February 24-March 9. The union warns that actions may escalate if the issue isn’t resolved.
Unite’s general secretary, Sharon Graham, criticized First Bus for underpaying drivers. She called the situation unacceptable, especially since the company is profitable.
Megan Hope, Operations Director at First Bus, stated they offered a 15.5% pay increase. She emphasized that industrial action would harm customers who rely on buses.
First Bus plans to run limited services, including school trips, during the strike. They encourage the union to accept their offer to avoid disruptions.
