Bus services across the west of Scotland are set to be heavily disrupted in May as Stagecoach West Scotland drivers, represented by the Unite union, gear up for multiple days of strike action over a pay dispute.
Drivers based at depots in Ayr, Arran, Ardrossan, Dumfries, Kilmarnock and Stranraer – covering routes across Ayrshire, Lanarkshire, Dumfries and Galloway, and into Glasgow – overwhelmingly rejected a proposed 4% pay rise, prompting the union to ballot members for industrial action. An overwhelming 98% voted in favour.
As a result, strike action has now been confirmed for 2, 6, 9, 12, 16, 19 and 23 May, threatening widespread travel disruption throughout the region.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham condemned the offer as inadequate, stating: “Our members at Stagecoach West Scotland are left with no choice but to strike due to an unacceptable pay offer.
This is a profitable company which can and should offer a fairer deal. Unite stands fully behind our members in their fight for decent pay and conditions.”
Industrial officer Siobhan McCready added: “Our drivers are among the lowest paid across the entire Stagecoach group. The company’s refusal to address low wages has forced our members into taking industrial action. They are not asking for the moon – only fair pay and parity.”
Stagecoach, in response, voiced disappointment at Unite’s decision, warning of significant disruption to customers and communities.
A spokesperson said: “We are disappointed by the decision to strike, especially after presenting a pay offer that included a 15.6% rise over two years – on top of a 13% increase agreed in 2023. We urge the union to reconsider and return to talks.”
The transport operator also stressed its commitment to maintaining essential connections and minimising passenger disruption, stating that contingency plans would be rolled out during the strike period.
