By Joe Locker, Local Democracy Reporter
Nottingham tram strikes planned for the annual Goose Fair period have been called off after staff accepted a ten per cent pay increase offer.
Nottingham Express Transit (NET) workers, represented by the GMB union, were expected to stage the action between September 29 and October 8.
The strike would have coincided with the fair at the Forest Recreation Ground, which attracts around half a million people over ten days.
Around 300 drivers, mechanics, control room and ticket office staff were expected to join the action.
However, following further negotiations just days before the strikes were due to begin, a fresh pay offer was accepted by GMB members.
The union confirmed on Thursday (September 28) workers had voted to back a new pay deal representing a 10 per cent rise.
Colin Whyatt, GMB organiser, said: “Nottingham’s tram workers have stood together and won the pay and recognition they deserve.
“Our tram network is unique and a real asset to the city and our community.
“This is only possible because of the hard work and dedication of the staff who keep the network running day in and day out.
“Goose Fair strikes would have caused massive travel distribution across the city.
“It’s a shame that, despite considerable efforts from GMB, it’s taken the company this long to resolve the issue of low pay on Nottingham’s trams.”
A vote on strike action came after tram operator Keolis originally offered a pay deal to staff which the union said represented a real-terms pay cut.
They had initially been offered a deal between 6.75 and nine per cent.
In a statement to the Local Democracy Reporting Service Chris Wright, managing director of Nottingham Trams, added: “We are pleased that GMB members have accepted our latest pay offer, and that the union has agreed to call off its planned industrial action during Nottingham’s Goose Fair.
“We can now focus all our efforts on delivering the best possible service to customers during one of the busiest times of the year.”
