Stagecoach welcomes “constructive discussions” with Unite in Preston pay talks

Stagecoach Merseyside and South Lancashire today (07 October 2021) welcomed “constructive discussions” with trade union Unite in pay talks covering employees based in Preston.

Unite has confirmed previously planned industrial action by members in Preston on 14, 15 and 16 October has been cancelled and bus services will now continue to operate as normal on those days.

New pay proposals put forward by Stagecoach are to be voted on by employees on 11-12 October with a “strong union recommendation to accept”.

The deal would see employees receive a pay increase of £19.50 a week moving forward if accepted.

Matt Davies, Managing Director of Stagecoach Merseyside and South Lancashire, said: “We have had constructive discussions with Unite. Throughout our talks with the union, we have been 100% committed to reaching a sustainable agreement, and we have left no stone unturned to achieve that.

“Our priority has been to protect jobs and ensure our people who keep our communities connected are properly rewarded, particularly after their incredible contribution to the country during the past 18 months of the pandemic.

“We are pleased to have put together a positive pay package for our people with a strong union recommendation to accept. It also helps secure the long-term sustainability of the bus network for our local communities in the area.

“Buses are a lifeline for local people and strike would simply damage the lives and livelihoods of local people, including our employees, as well as the region’s businesses. We are pleased the union has moved to end that uncertainty.”

Bus services are facing a continuing challenging financial environment with passenger levels significantly down on pre-Covid levels. Fares are insufficient to cover the day-to-day costs of running services without government support.

ENDS