Engineers employed at theme park Chessington World of Adventures have called off planned strike action after accepting an improved pay offer of 13.53%.
The dispute was a result of the engineers, responsible for ensuring the park's safety systems are fully operational, seeking a pay increase in line with the real rate of inflation, which currently stands at 13.5%.
Following talks at the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) earlier this week, a revised pay offer across the engineering bargaining group was made. Unite members who work at the park accepted this offer, and the strikes were cancelled.
Strike action was planned for 28 April to 1 May, 5 to 8 May, 12 to 15 May and 26 to 29 May, and would have affected all three of this year’s May bank holiday weekends.
A Chessington World of Adventures Resort spokesperson said: “Following ongoing conversations with Unite, supported by third-party conciliation service Acas, we restructured our original pay proposal and have reached an agreement with our engineering team that delivers for both the business and Unite members.
“As a result, the planned industrial action has been cancelled. We want to advise all guests that our rides and attractions will now be available as normal, alongside our zoo, entertainment and show offer.”
Sharon Graham, general secretary at Unite, added: “Merlin Attractions is an extremely wealthy business that is anticipating a bumper year. It can fully afford to make a fair pay offer to its workers, but it has chosen not to do so. The engineers are critical to the safe and smooth operation of Chessington, so their employer should be rewarding them for their vital work.
“This was an excellent result for our members who for the very first time stood together in unity and ensured that their employer made a fair pay offer. This pay victory is a fresh vindication of how Unite’s relentless focus on enhancing jobs, pay and conditions is delivering for members.”
