Stagecoach Oldham bus drivers negotiate significant pay increase as 'dramatic improvement' made in offer

More than 450 staff members will receive a 6.25 percent wage increase, an extra five days holiday and upgrades in sickness pay entitlements.

For drivers starting out after completing their training, that would see their wage go from £29k to almost £31k a year. The decision follows lengthy talks between workers’ union Unite and Stagecoach management. Union members were reportedly on the cusp of balloting for industrial action when Stagecoach put forward an offer. 

The offer, described as a ‘dramatic improvement’ by the union, was accepted by an 87 pc majority vote by members. 

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Congratulations to our members whose steadfast determination to better their pay and conditions is inspiring. This deal goes to show that Unite will always strive to improve our members’ pay and conditions.”

A Stagecoach spokesperson added that they “pleased to have reached an agreement with our Oldham staff”.

The pay rise comes just five months after Oldham completed its transition to the Greater Manchester Bee Network, part of Mayor Andy Burnham’s vision for an ‘integrated transport system’ for Greater Manchester. 

Though Stagecoach manages the service, its fleet consists of different local bus operators who can have widely differing pay conditions. Sources within Unite intimated that they were hopeful pay levels will gradually become more equal across the service. 

Oldham councillor Josh Charters, who heads the council’s transport department, was delighted by the news. 

“I’m happy to see that Stagecoach has worked with drivers and Unite to come to an agreement that is beneficial for everyone,” Charters said.

They added: “Stagecoach Manchester remains committed to supporting its staff and ensuring we continue to deliver reliable and high-quality service to customers. "We are keen to welcome more drivers at the Oldham depot team offering a strong career and extended benefits.”