One of Scotland’s most vital roads could be forced to close, causing significant disruption, after workers voted in favour of industrial action amid an ongoing pay dispute.
The Clyde Tunnel in Glasgow, used by approximately 65,000 motorists daily, is at risk of closure as control room staff have unanimously supported strike action.
A team of ten employees, based in Whiteinch, are responsible for monitoring the tunnel’s CCTV system and ensuring the safety of drivers crossing beneath the River Clyde. Their duties also include managing ventilation and responding to breakdowns and other emergencies.
GMB Scotland stated that its members voted for strike action following the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (Cosla) offering a 3% pay rise, which staff deemed insufficient.
The union warned that a strike could force the closure of the tunnel, which links the north and south of Glasgow.
Keir Greenaway, senior organiser for public services at GMB Scotland, said the tunnel staff were the first to vote in a wider campaign for improved pay across all council workers.
“Council workers are once again being forced to fight for fair pay, while others in the public sector, such as NHS Scotland staff, are receiving more acceptable offers,” he said. “The daily lives of millions of Scots depend on local authority staff, and they should not be treated as the poor relations of our public services.
“The team at the Clyde Tunnel keep Scotland’s largest city moving, exemplifying the essential services our members provide. Without their expertise and experience, one of the nation’s most important roads could close, causing untold disruption.”
The union is now planning strategic action, beginning with the proposed Clyde Tunnel strike, to secure a pay rise of £1 per hour, or 6.5%.
This follows a consultative ballot of all GMB Scotland council members, in which 96% of those who voted supported walkouts if Cosla fails to improve upon the 3% offer.
Strike dates have yet to be announced, but it is understood that at least two weeks’ notice must be given to the council before any industrial action takes place.
A spokesperson for Glasgow City Council said: “We are aware of the ballot result, but have not received any formal notification of industrial action concerning the Clyde Tunnel. The ballot relates to national pay negotiations for local authorities, which are managed at a national level through Cosla.”
A Scottish Government spokesperson added: “The Scottish Government has no formal role in these negotiations. However, we urge all parties to work together constructively to reach an agreement that is fair for the workforce and affordable for employers.”
