More strikes affect Rochdale bus services

Date published: 14 September 2009

Bus services in Rochdale have been affected by strike action again today (Monday 14 September).

Workers at First Bus based in Wigan, Bolton and Bury are taking part in a second 24 hour strike in a fight over fair pay following similar action on Friday.

Further all day stoppages are planned for Monday 21 September and Monday 28 September unless the dispute over pay can be resolved.

The Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive is advising passengers to explore alternative travel options on and to expect demand on services provided by other operators, as well as on trains and trams, to be significantly greater.

GMPTE spokesman Michael Renshaw said: "We are disappointed that an agreement could not be reached and that passengers are going to be affected by this industrial action.

"Passengers are advised to check what services will not be running in the districts affected, and the details of any additional services other bus companies intend to run.

"They should allow extra time for their journeys, as there will be greater demand for other services and there is also likely to be more traffic on the roads.

"We will have staff on hand across the network to advise, we will be putting up notices on affected bus stops and stations, and details will also be available from our website. People can also call our Traveline phone service for the latest information."