More than 200 workers at the Urenco nuclear site in Capenhurst, Cheshire, have voted for strike action in a dispute over pay. The workers, who are employed in enriching uranium, have backed the action, according to Unite the Union. Over 80% of GMB union members have also voted for industrial action over the same issue.
Pay demands and offers
Members of both unions are demanding a pay rise of at least 4.5%, in line with the retail price index (RPI) measure of inflation in September 2025. They argued that their members have received a pay settlement based on the RPI for nearly a decade.
However, the company has offered a 4.1% pay rise. The unions have expressed anger at this offer given that Urenco posted profits of €221.8 million (£189.66 million) in the half-year ending on June 30, 2026.
Union responses
Steve Boden, GMB regional organiser, said: “Urenco have dragged out negotiations for months while our members go without a pay rise. They’ve been left with no choice but to go with the nuclear option and vote for strike action. These are high skilled workers in a strategically vital industry for the UK; they deserve a real pay rise. It’s time for Urenco to de-escalate and make an improved offer.”
Brian Troake, Unite regional officer, said: “Urenco UK operations generated huge operating profits. Industrial action can still be avoided but that will require an improved offer from the company.”
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Urenco is hugely profitable and can more than afford to put forward a pay offer that meets these workers’ expectations. Unite is backing them 100 per cent in their demands for an acceptable pay offer.”
Company response
In response, a Urenco spokesperson said: “Urenco believes in investing in employees through a strong overall pay and benefits package which is competitive both locally and nationally. Over the last three years, pay award values have totalled 24.2% (this has been paid in addition to salary increments and associated bonus and shift payments and the extension of private medical and dental benefits to all employees).
“Urenco values its positive and constructive relationships with its recognised trade unions. In the spirit of negotiation and good relations, the company made a best and final offer of 4.1% during pay discussions. This pay offer was accepted by members of Prospect but rejected by members of Unite and GMB.
“Members of Unite and GMB within the collective bargaining unit have indicated a preference for a 4.5% deal (in addition to salary increments) linked to the RPI figure for September 2025. RPI has not been consistently used as a pay mechanism at Capenhurst and is being phased out nationally as an accurate measure of inflation. The live pay offer is above the CPI figure for September 2025.
“A large proportion of employees will not be participating in any industrial action and so, for the most part, the business will be operating as usual. All safety, security and regulatory requirements will continue to be met. Urenco must continue to manage costs responsibly to support future investment in the site and we believe the live offer remains fair and competitive, both locally and nationally.”
Strike dates have not been confirmed yet.
