Bus worker strike affecting Luton and Milton Keynes called off after Arriva & Unite reach deal

A planned bus worker strike by Arriva bus workers from Luton and Milton Keynes depots has been called off after a deal with their union Unite.

Unite had announced plans for a series of strikes in September and October of workers across Arriva depots in southern England, which included Luton, Milton Keynes, Stevenage, Ware and Hemel Hempstead.

16 days of strikes were announced between late September and mid-October, covering Tuesday 23 September – Friday 26 September, Wednesday 1 October – Saturday 4 October, Thursday 9 October – Sunday 12 October and Tuesday 14 October – Friday 17 October.

But after negotiations between the bus company and the union, Unite have announced they will now no longer be going ahead with the strikes after receiving a deal for the over 800 workers represented that they are content with.

Unite have said that their members have won a new pay award that will see their pay increase up to 5.8 per cent dependent on role.

In a statement, Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said, “This shows the strength of workers and the power of the union movement. Unite is the winning trade union and is putting more money into the pockets of our members.”

The union’s regional officer Jeff Hodge added, “Our members were prepared to take strike action in their fight for better pay and their determination has seen them win a new and improved pay deal. They should be congratulated for standing together against and getting a well-earned pay award.”