Network Rail has received news from the RMT & TSSA regarding the latest pay offer for the operations (including controllers), maintenance and bands 5-8 bargaining groups that it as to move forward with a strike ballot.

Phil Hufton managing director, Network Operations, said: “I’m disappointed that the RMT has taken the decision to reject the offer and ballot their members for industrial action.

“Our latest offer is fair given our financial pressures and provides long term employment opportunities by guaranteeing a further extension to the no compulsory redundancy agreement as well as providing a lump sum in 2015

“Pay awards at Network Rail over the last four years have been well ahead of the rest of the country. Pay has increased eight times more than workers in the public sector - such as teachers and nurses – and double the pay for private sector workers.

“We remain open to talks with our trades unions.”