Zarah ChoudharyPotential strikes by more than 250 Stagecoach West bus drivers will not take place after an improved pay deal was secured.
The drivers, members of trade union Unite, voted for strike action earlier this month, but have now accepted a pay deal that will see wages increase by 11.1% by January 2026.
This includes an increase of approximately £1 an hour effective from January 2025, plus a £400 one off payment for drivers who began work for Stagecoach West before October 2024.
Sharon Graham, general secretary at Unite said: “This is trade unionism in action: Stagecoach West’s drivers stood together and secured a substantial increase in pay.
“Unite’s mission to drive up jobs, pay and conditions is once again putting money in our members’ pockets.”
The deal also protected weekend and bank holiday rates.
If the CPI inflation rate is higher than 6% in January 2026, pay negotiations will be reopened.
The drivers are based in depots in Cheltenham, Coleway, Gloucester and Stroud.
Amy Roberts, regional officer at Unite said: “Well done to our Stagecoach reps and members. Without their hard work and solidarity this deal would not have been achieved.
“This result is a prime example of why those who want better wages and working lives should join Unite and get their colleagues to join too.”
A spokesperson at Stagecoach West said: “Stagecoach West is pleased to confirm that an agreement on pay has been reached with our drivers across four sites in Gloucestershire.
“This agreement includes an 11% pay rise over the two-year period, October 2024 to October 2026.
“This deal not only provides a fair and competitive wage for our team but also ensures the continued delivery of vital bus services for local communities.”
