Tip Staff Could Strike In Row Over Pay

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

The GMB Union says the county council plans to cut their wages by as much as £1,300 and is to begin balloting its members for industrial action.

David Warwick, GMB Organiser, said: “These workers are facing an impossible situation, with Council bosses unilaterally imposing huge pay cuts on them.

“There could be overflowing waste in the county’s tips within weeks if Council bosses refuse to row back on these damaging plans.

“Workers are rightly furious at the plans, which would have a huge impact on them and their families.

“They should not be expected to pay the price for the Council bad financial planning and our union will fight these cuts tooth and nail”.

Market Harborough’s Recycling & Household Waste Site

Leicestershire County Council says it needs to modify working patterns due to upcoming changes in opening hours at its Recycling and Household Waste sites – including in Market Harborough and Kibworth.

It adds it expects no significant disruption should strike action take place.

A spokesperson said: “The county council has noted the union’s intention to ballot for industrial action and open to further dialogue with GMB to try and resolve this situation and minimise any impacts on waste site staff.

“Should industrial action be voted for, no significant disruption is expected, and plans will be put in place to ensure that most waste sites can remain open as scheduled.

“Due to upcoming changes in the opening hours of waste sites from April 2025, modifying the working patterns was necessary. There will be no redundancies.

“A formal consultation with affected staff and the unions was carried out between 1st July and 9th September 2024, listening to feedback and making changes where possible.”