Alistair Hardaker | Image: National Coal Mining Museum (National Coal Mining Museum)
More than 40 staff at National Coal Mining Museum near Wakefield return after eight-month dispute resolved with 10.5% increase and removal of disciplinary terms.
A strike at the National Coal Mining Museum near Wakefield has ended after more than 40 workers voted to accept a pay offer following eight months of industrial action.
The dispute, which began on 20 August 2025, concluded after employees accepted a 10.5% pay increase. Mine guides will see their hourly rate rise from £12.86 to £14.21, an increase of £1.35 per hour, effective from 1 April 2026.
The museum confirmed no pay award will be given for 2025/26, except for employees already receiving the Real Living Wage, which increased to £13.45 per hour from 1 April.
The pay settlement for 2026/27 will be funded through operational efficiencies, according to the museum, which stated the agreement is “significantly higher than the agreed budget”.
All disciplinary clauses previously included in pay offers have been removed from the final agreement.
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.
“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.”
Lynn Dunning, chief executive, and Phil Marshall, chair of the board of trustees, said in a joint statement: “Following a period of extensive negotiations a pay agreement has been reached that sits within the Charity’s financial parameters and helps to secure the long-term sustainability of this much‑loved national visitor attraction.
“Our shared ambition now is to move forward positively, and continuing our vital work to preserve, celebrate, and share the story of coal mining and the communities it shaped.”
The museum said underground tours will resume in due course.
