Clyde Tunnel workers vote for strike action

One of Scotland’s busiest roads could be forced to close due to strike action by control room workers.

The team in the Clyde Tunnel control room at Whiteinch monitor cameras, control ventilation and respond to breakdowns and emergencies on the road.

The GMB union – which represents most of the workers – previously rejected a 3% pay rise from council umbrella body Cosla, and called on the Scottish government to provide councils with extra funding.

The union said the proposed strike is the first step in a campaign of action aimed at securing an improved pay offer of 6.5%.

Keir Greenaway, GMB Scotland’s senior organiser in public services, said council staff were tired of being treated as “the poor relations in our public services.”

He added: “Council workers have again been forced to fight for fair pay while watching others in the public sector, NHS Scotland, for example, being made acceptable offers.

“The team at the Clyde Tunnel keep Scotland’s biggest city moving – only one example of the essential services delivered by our members.

“Without their expertise and experience, one of the country’s most important roads could close with untold disruption.”

Council pay is negotiated nationally between unions and Cosla.

GMB Scotland have called for a 6.5% pay increase instead of the proposed 3%, saying it would work out as the equivalent of a £1 an hour rise.

An estimated 65,000 cars, vans and lorries use the Clyde Tunnel every weekday.

Glasgow City Council and the Scottish government have been contacted for comment.