Cambridge commuters and shoppers are being warned to expect major disruption to bus services this Christmas as 200 Stagecoach workers prepare to strike over pay.
The industrial action, announced by Unite, the UK’s largest union, will take place on 17, 20, 22, 24, and 27 December, hitting bus routes across the city.
Drivers and engineers have rejected a pay proposal that would cut overtime rates by 12% on weekdays and 20% on weekends and bank holidays.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Stagecoach is a profitable company and can absolutely afford to offer a pay deal that does not reduce overtime rates.
“Stagecoach’s Cambridge workforce has our full support in taking strike action to achieve that.”
The union claims Stagecoach reported operating profits of £97.3 million in the year to April 2024, on sales of £1.6 billion and so therefore can afford to treat their members fairly.
Unite regional officer Mark Plumb added: “Stagecoach is entirely responsible for the disruption that will be caused to passengers. Industrial action can still be avoided, but that requires the company to make an acceptable offer.”
Passengers are urged to check service updates before travelling, especially on the strike dates, as disruptions are expected to be severe.
