Tip Strike Threat Intensifies

Workers at Leicestershire’s tips could strike next year in a row over pay.

The GMB Union is balloting members at Recycling and Household Waste Sites, including in Market Harborough and Kibworth.

It says some staff could lose £2,000 a year under Leicestershire County Council’s decision to reduce working hours from next April.

Walk-outs will take place in March if members vote for the industrial action, with the union warning it will lead to major disruption.

Market Harborough Tip

David Warwick, GMB organiser, said: “This is a cruel move from a council that has completely lost control of its own finances.

“To make low-paid Leicestershire workers pay the price for the failures of the council’s leaders.

“GMB members will now take stock of the council’s decision and are preparing to ballot for strike action in January.”

Kibworth Tip

The reduction in pay for some workers comes as part of plans to save £300,000 per year by reducing opening hours at tips.

A spokesman for Leicestershire County Council: “This isn’t a decision we have taken lightly, but there is increasing financial pressure on the council and we are having to make some big decisions in order to drive down costs.

“We recognise that a number of employees will be impacted by these changes through typically having their working hours reduced by three hours a week.

“The affected staff will be paid for a minimum of 37 hours each week, which is the same as most other council employees.

“For the majority, the reduction of hours will start in April 2025, to align with the revised summer opening times.

“We have been consulting with staff about proposed changes since July 2024 and have fully taken part in discussions with the unions in relation to them.”