Scots face six weeks of bus chaos as Stagecoach drivers launch strike over pay

More than 400 Stagecoach bus drivers in Scotland have begun an all-out strike from June 9 over a pay dispute, causing major disruptions across Ayrshire, Lanarkshire, and parts of Glasgow.

Commuters across parts of Scotland are bracing for six weeks of widespread bus disruptions as around 430 Stagecoach drivers begin continuous strike action on Sunday, June 9, in a row over pay and working conditions.

The industrial action, backed by Unite the Union, follows an overwhelming 98% rejection of a four percent pay increase. Drivers said the offer came with unacceptable demands, including longer working hours, extended unpaid breaks, and the potential loss of up to one week’s annual leave.

The strike, which is expected to continue until July 21, affects depots in Ayr, Ardrossan, Arran, and Kilmarnock—impacting bus services across Ayrshire, Lanarkshire, and Glasgow. Depots in Dumfries and Galloway remain unaffected.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said the proposed deal would leave drivers among the lowest paid within Stagecoach’s UK operations.

“Stagecoach West Scotland is taking our members for a ride,” Graham said. “The pay offer on the table leaves them the poorest paid drivers across Stagecoach’s UK operations. That is simply unacceptable. Unite will back our drivers all the way in their fight for better jobs, pay, and conditions.”

Stagecoach described the action as “regrettable” and confirmed plans to run a limited service using available staff during the strike period.

“We’re working hard to minimise the impact of this disruption, but unfortunately, the limited services we’re running will affect customers travelling in and around Ayrshire,” a spokesperson said. “We’re very sorry for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience and understanding.”

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