Huddersfield bus strikes by 170 First West Yorkshire drivers have been called off after Unite, the UK’s leading union, secured an improved pay deal worth nearly 16 per cent.

The workers were poised to strike over pay lagging behind First West Yorkshire drivers in other areas.

The improved pay deal means wages have been increased to £15 an hour earlier than first proposed by the company. The length of the deal, which sees wages increased incrementally, was also reduced from two and a half years to two years.

The workers’ wages will increase to £15 an hour back paid from September 2024. They will also receive a £200 one off payment. By April 2025, pay will have increased by 15.76 per cent - worth more than £4,000 for full time employees. 

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Congratulations to First West Yorkshire’s Huddersfield drivers who won this excellent pay deal by being prepared to take strike action. This is exactly what Unite does: deliver improved jobs, pay and conditions for our members.”

Strike action scheduled for later in February and early March will now not go ahead.

Unite regional officer Darren Rushworth said: “This pay victory is another reminder that those wanting better wages and working lives should join Unite and organise their colleagues to join too – there is power in a union.”

ENDS

For media enquires ONLY contact senior Unite communications officer Ryan Fletcher on 07849 090215 or 020 3371 2065. 

Email: ryan.fletcher@unitetheunion.org

Unite is Britain and Ireland’s largest union with members working across all sectors of the economy. The general secretary is Sharon Graham.