Planned strikes on the Manchester Metrolink tram system this weekend have been suspended after workers received a greatly improved pay offer.

Members of Unite, the UK’s leading union, had overwhelmingly voted for industrial action and strikes were due to take place this weekend (Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 September).

This would have significantly disrupted spectators attending the Manchester United vs Aston Villa football match and the Great Manchester Run the following day.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “By taking a stand our members have forced management to return to negotiations and table a greatly improved pay offer.

“This demonstrates when Unite is wholly dedicated to advancing jobs, pay and conditions we can get a better deal for our members.”

Following extensive negotiations yesterday (Monday 20 September) between Unite and senior management at Keolis/Amey, which operates Metrolink, a vastly improved pay offer was agreed.

The Unite members at Metrolink will now vote on the offer, which Unite is recommending they accept.

Guillaume Chanussot, Managing Director at operator KeolisAmey Metrolink (KAM), said: “I am pleased that we have been able to reach agreement with Unite on an improved offer for our Driver workforce which enables them to suspend their planned industrial action on 25th and 26th September.

“Unite will now recommend this offer to their members and we await the outcome of their consultation exercise.”

TfGM’s Head of Metrolink Danny Vaughan, said: “Following constructive discussions between Unite and the Metrolink operator, this weekend’s proposed industrial action has been called off – which is great news for all our customers.

“A revised pay offer will now be put to members and a further update will be issued once that has been done.

“We’ll now be able to concentrate on providing a normal service to support the various major events taking place this weekend and all those who rely on Metrolink to get around. If travelling with us, please still plan ahead and allow extra time because we expect it to be much busier than usual.”

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