Bus controllers employed by Transport UK in south west London have accepted a pay rise following strike action.
The bus controllers, who are members of trade union Unite, use technology to control the network and ensure buses run on time and avoid heavy traffic or accidents. The increase is worth 12% and comprises an 8% rise backdated to January 2023 and a further 4% for this year.
Industrial action involving the employees located in control rooms in Battersea and Twickenham was due to take place on 8 May, as they stated they were unhappy about earning less than their counterparts at other operators.
Following extensive negotiations, an improved offer was put forward by the employer. The strike action was then suspended to allow members to consider and vote on the offer.
Sharon Graham, general secretary at Unite, said: “This is a good victory for our members and one that is no less than they deserve following extensive industrial action. They should be congratulated on achieving this pay increase.”
Maxine Loza, regional officer at Unite, added: “Bus controllers do a highly skilled job and one they should be paid properly for. It was disappointing that our members were forced to take to the picket line to get a fair day's pay so they should be praised for the dedication and resolve they showed during this dispute.”
Transport UK was contacted for comment prior to publication.
Its benefits offerings for eligible employees include life insurance, free travel for staff and a friend or family member, high street discounts, a bikes-for-work scheme, eye test vouchers, an employee assistance programme, and free rehabilitation and physiotherapy services.
