LONG running strike action involving refuse workers employed by Allerdale Waste Services, affecting Workington and the surrounding area, has ended after workers voted to accept an improved pay offer.

The strike involving members of Unite, the UK’s leading union, began in April and the workers have been on all-out continuous strike since May.

Following negotiations with Allerdale Waste Services, brokered by the conciliation service Acas, the loaders were offered an increase in pay from £10.90 an hour to £11.81 (8.3 per cent) while the drivers who are legally required to hold a HGV licence will see their pay increase from £11.99 an hour to £13.62 an hour (13.6 per cent.) The members were balloted on the offer and it was accepted.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This was a hard fought and well-earned victory by our members who were determined to secure a decent pay increase. Once the employer understood that our members were not prepared to budge on their just demands, a settlement that met their expectations was agreed.”

“This result is further evidence of how Unite’s relentless focus on jobs, pay and conditions, and its total support for workers prepared to take industrial action, is delivering direct financial benefits.”

As part of the agreement the workforce will see their working hours reduced to 37 hours a week, they will also receive a double time payment for working on bank holidays plus a day off in lieu. Further policies to improve the overall working environment will also be enacted.

The workers will return to work on Thursday, August 24.

Unite regional officer Ryan Armstrong said: “Special credit must go to Unite’s reps and members. Without their hard work and perseverance, this victory would not have been possible. Over the past nine days the dynamic of the negotiations has changed from a stalemate to a resolution which was acceptable to our members.”

“Unite will now be working to ensure that all elements of the agreement are fully and swiftly implemented.”

AWSL strike Committee said: “The members are happy we have come to a resolution in regard to pay and conditions and are looking forward to returning to the job they do best, serving the local residents.”

The GMB union were also involved in the dispute.

Allerdale Waste Services (AWS) have also said they are pleased to announce the successful resolution of the recent industrial action that has impacted on the waste and recycling collection services in the former Allerdale area.

Charles Holmes, Managing Director of Allerdale Waste Services, said:"The successful resolution of this industrial action is a testament to the commitment and dedication of all parties involved. We have upheld our principles of open dialogue and have worked to find a fair and sustainable agreement.

“I would very much like to thank the team here at Allerdale Waste Services who have worked tirelessly over the past few months to continue to collect household waste throughout this period of Industrial Action.

“I am confident that this resolution will allow us to continue providing excellent waste collection services while respecting the contributions of all our valued employees. Work will now commence to safely reintroduce all waste collection services in a phased approach over the coming weeks. Further details for residents will be available online soon.”