First Bus drivers based at its Hoeford depot in Hampshire have accepted an improved pay deal, following a period of industrial action.
The employees, who are members of trade union Unite, voted in favour of the new agreement, which will see them receive a 7% pay increase overall and their pay anniversary shifted to February annually.
The deal includes a 5.5% increase in headline pay backdated to August 2024 and a rise in overtime rates. In August, they will receive a further 1.5% and a further rise in overtime pay.
The drivers took part in 32 days of strikes earlier this year and at the end of last year. Last month, they were originally awarded a 4.8% pay rise, however this new deal has since been agreed on and voted through.
First Bus drivers based in Slough have also accepted an almost identical offer, avoiding any industrial action.
Simon Goff, managing director at First Bus South, said: “We are pleased to have agreed a pay deal with Unite at our Hoeford depot. Staff will feel the benefit of this as soon as possible, with the new rates of pay applicable from 16 March, as well as backpay. We would like to thank our customers for their patience and understanding throughout our determined efforts to end this dispute.”
Sharon Graham, general secretary at Unite, added: “Our members at First Bus should be congratulated on achieving a decent pay increase after prolonged industrial action against an intransigent employer.”
Ian Woodland, regional officer at Unite, said: “First Bus has come back with an offer that is now acceptable to our members. They’ve also extended the same pay award to employees in Slough. Drivers do a skilled and stressful job, and these were some of the lowest paid in the region, so it is right that their hard work is being rewarded. Members should be congratulated for being willing to take to the picket line and staying strong.”
