Mining museum strike ends as workers vote to accept pay offer
A long-running strike at the National Coal Mining Museum near Wakefield has ended after staff voted to accept a significantly improved pay offer.
The decision brings to an end a continuous strike by more than 40 workers which began on 20 August 2025.
Employees voted in favour of accepting the pay deal so they can return to work and ensure proper upkeep of the historic mine so it remains open to the public. Striking staff repeatedly raised concerns about the maintenance of the mine during the walkout.
The improved pay deal for workers will see wages increase by 10.5%. This means mine guides will see their pay increase by £1.35 an hour, from £12.86 to £14.21.
All disciplinary clauses previously included in pay offers have also been removed.
UNISON Yorkshire and Humberside regional organiser Rianne Hooley said: “It’s fantastic news that these dedicated workers can return to what they love doing – telling the stories of coal mining and keeping the history alive for future generations.
“It’s just a shame this deal has taken so long to reach.
“Staff have been keen to explore different options to get the dispute resolved, but have continually been met with resistance.
“They’ve even had managers attempt to insert disciplinary clauses into pay deals. Getting those removed has added months on to negotiations.
“Staff have chosen to accept the pay offer so they can get back to work and protect the museum. Securing its long-term future on behalf of the public has always been their main priority.”
Notes:
– More than 40 workers have been on strike at the National Coal Mining Museum since August 2025 in a pay dispute. The original proposal made in summer 2025 – of £1 an hour or 5%, whichever is greater – was withdrawn by managers and replaced with a lower offer. More information is available here.
– The new pay deal will see wages rise by 10.5%. For mine guides, this is worth £1.35 per hour. Their pay will increase from £12.86 to £14.21. The pay will be effective as of 1 April 2026.
– In September 2025, chief executive Lynn Dunning attempted to block repair work on the mine, resulting in the union contacting HM Inspectorate of Mines, who instructed the museum to reschedule the work. Further concerns were raised in February 2026.
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