Tram drivers on West Midlands Metro are set to enjoy a pay increase of 13.5% from 1st April 2024 after the successful conclusion of negotiations between Unite the Union and the operator of the tramway.
With this latest pay increase, it will mean that “time-served” drivers on the West Midlands Metro will have increased by 33.6% since June 2022 meaning their wages have gone up from £22,000 to £30,100.
There was significant industrial action which took place on the network at the tail end of 2022 after previous pay negotiations had ended without agreement but it was eventually agreed at that time that there would be a 20.1% increase for those with a year’s service and 13.7% rise for those with less than a year’s service.
Sharon Graham, Unite General Secretary, said: “For too long, West Midlands Metro tram drivers were paid too little for what they did. The well-deserved increase in their wages since 2022 is a direct result of the workers standing together in their union. As this latest pay deal shows, Unite’s total focus on defending and improving jobs, pay and conditions is winning for our members.”
Sophie Allison, West Midlands Metro Managing Director, added: “We’re pleased to have reached a fair and amicable agreement with the union that will see drivers with over a 12-month’s service earning more than £30,000 per year. This latest pay deal reflects the hard work and dedication of the Metro team as we all strive to build on the popularity of the Metro by further enhancing services while looking towards the future expansion of the network.”