A COUNCIL has offered a seven per cent pay rise to workers amid a bin strike.

Eastbourne Borough Council put the offer to the GMB Union HGV drivers who are currently striking over pay and conditions.

The council has also reportedly offered a three per cent pay rise to all other staff at SEESL - South East Environmental Services Limited - the company set up by the council to deliver refuse.

It was also confirmed that the tea hut is being replaced with a "larger welfare unit" where workers are able to meet before shifts and make refreshments.

A spokesman for Eastbourne Council said: "In 2019 when we took over the service, all staff transferred from Kier to SEESL.

"At the time of our takeover, all staff received a four per cent increase in pay. In 2020 pay was increased again, this time by 2.75 per cent.

"Additionally, there is a national pay award negotiation underway and the current offer is 1.75 per cent.

He added: "With the above in mind, we believe this latest offer of a seven per cent increase for drivers and three per cent for all other SEESL staff is very generous and hope it will be accepted.

"It is worth noting that the government’s current pay rise offer for nurses is just three per cent.

"The council is extremely proud of the work done by all our staff during the pandemic, especially the SEESL team as they continued to collect the refuse and recycling and keep local streets clean."

The council also pointed out that since the takeover annual leave has been increased to 25 days for all staff. Previously, many staff only received 20 days holiday.

A spokesman said provisions for sick pay entitlements have been enhanced since SEESL took over from Kier.

He added: "We hope that the GMB Union will recognise that we have always acted in the best interests of all our staff."

Last week, GMB Union confirmed that HGV drivers for SEESL, would be striking on New Year’s Eve.

The council said it found this move “deeply disappointing” after senior management met with GMB Union on December 22.

The workers’ strike is over pay and working conditions, with HGV drivers wanting a pay increase to £13.50 an hour.

Drivers also claim they do not have a place to all keep dry in the mornings when it is raining. Declan Mac Intyre, GMB organiser, described the staff facilities as "disgraceful".

GMB have been contacted for comment on the proposed offer.

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