Approximately 200 Stagecoach bus drivers are set to strike after rejecting a proposed pay increase. The Unite union announced that the industrial action will impact services in the Highlands and Orkney, including routes on Skye.
Although no specific strike dates have been announced, Stagecoach Highland is actively working to secure a fair agreement and minimize disruption for passengers.
Unite specified that the drivers were offered a 4% pay rise starting in July, followed by an additional 2.5% increase from January next year, and a further 3% rise from July 2025 for one year. The areas potentially affected by the strike include Aviemore, Inverness, Portree, Tain, Thurso, and Orkney.
Unite’s General Secretary Sharon Graham stated, “Unite’s Stagecoach bus drivers who provide a vital service across the Scottish Highlands and Islands deserve an improved pay offer. The company continues to increase its bank balance at the expense of our members, and this is not acceptable.”
Stagecoach Highlands acknowledged being informed of the vote by Unite. A spokesperson commented, “Our joint negotiating committee of union representatives and management are working hard to reach a fair deal for our team across the region.
We would like to reassure our passengers that we are doing everything we can to minimise any potential disruption to services, and will provide further updates in due course.”
