Refuse workers in Harlow have called off the threat of strike action after voting today to accept a 10.1% pay rise.
The deal means that staff employed by contactor Veolia will also enjoy improved sick pay. It takes drivers’ pay over £15 an hour and loaders up to nearly £13.
Veolia had originally offered staff a rise of just 4.5% but months of negotiations and an overwhelming vote for walkouts forced the firm to make the double-digit offer, which workers accepted at a depot meeting this (Tuesday) morning.
UNISON Eastern regional organiser Sam Older said: “This is a massive victory for Harlow Veolia staff that thankfully means workers will not be forced to take strike action.
“Refuse workers didn’t want to cause disruption to their neighbours and fellow Harlow residents by walking out so we’re glad Veolia finally came up with an acceptable offer.
“But these workers couldn’t have done this without standing together in UNISON to demand fair pay.”