News / Bristol Waste
Bristol Waste bin strike called off as pay deal reached
A strike by more than 300 Bristol Waste bin workers has been called off after workers accepted an improved pay offer.
The decision comes days before Bristol Harbour Festival weekend, where the strike could have caused bins to pile up across the city over the busy weekend.
Workers accepted a 8.5 per cent pay rise over 12 months, as well as a one-off £500 payment.
is needed now More than ever
Workers will also receive between £2,500 and £3,500 in back pay, as the deal is back dated from November 2022.
Strikes have continued in Bristol’s neighbouring county, South Gloucestershire, where disruption is leading to uncollected recycling and long queues at recycling centres.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said the deal with Bristol Waste demonstrated the power of unions in getting better conditions and pay for workers.
“This deal was achieved through the strength of Bristol Waste’s workers standing together with their union and demanding a fair pay rise,” she said.
“Once again, Unite’s unrelenting focus on defending and improving jobs, pay and conditions is putting money in the pockets of our members.”
A Bristol Waste spokesperson said they hoped the pay deal would demonstrate the company’s appreciation and commitment to its bin workers.
“This is a testament to the cooperative spirit of all parties and the constructive dialogue during the negotiations,” a spokesperson said on Twitter.
“We value the hard work of our crews and the services they provide for the city and always seek to reflect that in the competitive salaries we offer.
“We hope the agreed pay settlement demonstrates our deep appreciation and commitment towards our workforce, and the important work they do for the city.
“We know that the possibility of a strike was concerning for residents and thank everyone for their understanding.”
The mayor also praised both parties for reaching an agreement.
“I recognise how hard our Bristol Waste employees work and I’m pleased that we could reach an agreement to reward them,” he said.
Main photo: Martin Booth
Read next:
- Bristol Waste big tidy project reaches every ward in the city
- Student rubbish on historic street becoming health hazard, say residents
- Plans to introduce waste disposal fees could lead to more fly-tipping
Listen to the latest Bristol24/7 Behind the Headlines podcast:
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
