"New pay deal agreed for Stagecoach bus drivers - bringing an end to strike action" 23 November 2021

Following several days of strike action, Stagecoach employees in Stockton and Hartlepool have voted to accept the company's new pay proposals.

Teesside drivers went on strike over being paid less than colleagues in other parts of the region, including Tyne and Wear.

The new pay offer has been recommended by the Unite union following extensive negotiations, and it's confirmation brings an end to industrial action.

Steve Walker, Managing Director of Stagecoach North East, said: “...We are pleased to have reached an agreement with our Unite local representatives that provides a fair deal for our employees in Stockton and Hartlepool and helps to secure the long-term sustainability of the local bus network...

Unite's regional coordinating officer, Mark Sanderson, told Teesside Live the problem had gone on for a long time.

He said: "These drivers, although they get the same percentage increase, they're on a lower pay than other drivers so it's less money, and over the years the pay gap has widened.

"Since the beginning of this dispute Unite believed that a resolution could be achieved through negotiations.".