SOLIHULL’S bin strike has been called off after a new pay deal was accepted.
Workers – who were due to walk out until April 1 – have taken up a pay rise of up to 5.26 per cent, with a minimum of £10 per hour.
Almost 100 refuse workers were set to walk out for five days in a strike impacting Bickenhill waste tip and recycling centre, local cemeteries, street cleansing, parks and more than 86,000 households.
GMB Union say Amey Services Limited, who hold the refuse services contract with Solhull Council, originally offered just £9.50 per hour.
Just over 56 per cent of the union members who are part of the work force voted to accept the new deal.
Turnout was 83 per cent.
Dave Warwick, GMB organiser, said: “GMB members have fought hard to get a pay rise the help them battle the crushing cost of living crisis.
“It was a close vote, with the membership split pretty much down the middle.
“This deal is the first time ever a union has won a blanket pay rise for every single worker on Solihull’s refuse contract.
“We are very proud of the way they stood up for themselves against bullying tactics of their employer and each one of them will now take home more money in their pockets.”
GMB says membership has doubled during the dispute.
An Amey spokesperson said: “We are delighted that through the consultation process the GMB decided to hold a second ballot and we thank their members for voting against strike action.
“Throughout, Amey and the majority of staff have been committed to ensuring no impact on services to the Council and people of Solihull.
“As the contract comes to its natural end on April 3, Amey will continue the work, which has been ongoing for many months, with the Council and new contractors to ensure a smooth and professional transfer, and continuity of services.
“We also remain committed to working positively with the GMB going forwards.”
