Members of the GMB Union employees voted by 92% to reject the waste management company’s proposed pay rise of 3.4%.
The union said the workforce will now move towards a formal ballot for industrial action, with voting dates expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
FCC and Union in discussion
FCC Environment confirmed it is currently in discussions with the union.
A spokesperson said: “FCC Environment can confirm that it is currently in negotiations with the GMB Union in Dartford.
“FCC is not willing to negotiate through the media however, so we have no further public comment at this time.”
Frustrations over pay levels
According to the GMB, workers have expressed frustration over pay levels compared with neighbouring refuse contracts.
Craig Prickett, GMB organiser, said: “GMB members at FCC Dartford work incredibly hard to keep the borough clean and safe, yet they are being left behind on pay compared to refuse workers on neighbouring contracts.
“Workers have sent a very clear message to the company they will not accept poverty wages.
“GMB remains ready to talk, but FCC must come back to the table with a meaningful offer that recognises the hard work of these workers and brings their pay in line with comparable refuse contracts.”
Previous waste strike in Dartford
It is not the first time refuse workers in Dartford have taken action over pay.
In July 2023, GMB members working as drivers, loaders and street sweepers balloted for strike action after rejecting an 8% pay rise.
At the time, the council’s refuse contract was operated by Urbaser, which was subsequently acquired by FCC Environment in 2024.
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