West Midlands transport, housing and environmental projects to face disruption as staff plan to 'walk out' over 'inadequate pay offer'
Staff from the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) will strike this week over an 'inadequate' pay offer, a union has confirmed.
UNISON confirmed today (November 12) that workers involved in various roles across the region will walk out on Friday (November 14) after overwhelmingly rejecting a 3.2% offer. Their pay rise for 2025/2026 was due more than six months ago.
UNISON West Midlands regional organiser Ashley Morley said: “Authority staff have faced major changes to the service and have taken on greater responsibilities. Their pay should reflect that.
“These workers deserve proper recognition for all they do and a decent pay offer that matches their skills, dedication and the critical work they do.”
Employees – including those who work at bus stations, interchanges, infrastructure project officers and customer service staff – have also been staging a work to rule since Monday 27 October.
The strike will bring disruption to the planning of transport operations, environmental and housing projects as well as work in communities across the West Midlands - but could be avoided if an improved offer is given, the union has warned.
UNISON national secretary Donna Rowe-Merriman added: “The rising cost of living continues to hit workers hard and simply can’t be ignored by employers.
“For staff to have been offered just a 3.2% pay rise is unacceptable. That’s well below the rate of inflation.
“The decision to strike is never taken lightly, but the strength of feeling among the workforce is clear. Members are determined to stand up for fair pay.
“West Midlands Combined Authority management must come back with a better offer and avoid needless disruption by recognising the vital work these staff do to keep services running.”
A WMCA spokesperson said: "We value the hard work of our staff across Transport for West Midlands and the West Midlands Combined Authority and recognise the important role they play in delivering services for people across the region.
“We are committed to minimising any disruption to customers during this industrial action and remain focused on achieving a fair resolution as soon as possible, in the interests of both our staff and the communities we serve.”
