Back on the busses – Arriva strike to end as pay deal reached

Arriva bosses and union officials have reached a pay agreement that will local bus routes return from tomorrow (Thursday).

Unite say Arriva North West have agreed to an 11.1% pay increase, and have called off industrial action from 3am on Thursday morning. Union members must still be balloted to agree the deal but union officials will recommend the proposal is accepted.

Arriva North West called the proposal: “an unprecedented pay deal for Arriva North West drivers”.

Around 1,800 Arriva staff from across the North West have been on strike for just under a month.

Unite regional officer Dave Roberts said: “Following our members’ very strong rejection of the company’s offer yesterday evening, Arriva have seen sense and met the demands of our members by tabling an 11.1 per cent pay deal. Unite’s negotiating team is recommending the offer be accepted and it is being put to members in a vote.

“The strike is suspended pending the outcome of the ballot and drivers are to return to work tomorrow to serve the needs of the community and public. The determination and resolve of our members has been solid throughout the industrial action and we thank those who have provided support and assistance to secure the offer from the company.”

A spokesperson for Arriva North West said: “[We] would like to thank our customers across the North West region, for your continued patience in recent weeks, during the extremely challenging Strike period. Timetable and Journey information, for Arriva North West services returning on Thursday 18th August can be found online at arrivabus.co.uk and via the Arriva journey planning.”