MACCLESFIELD College staff have indicated they are prepared to strike over a “low-ball” 1.5 per cent pay rise, the University and College Union (UCU) announced today.

In an online ballot, UCU members at the college voted to reject the offer by 95 per cent, on a turnout of 82 per cent.

UCU says the college’s refusal to backdate an offer of 3 per cent to August means it is worth only 1.5 per cent in the year.

The college is due to be taken over by Cheshire College South and West on August 1.

UCU general secretary Jo Grady said that management “needs to reflect on this overwhelming vote to reject its low-ball pay offer and come back to the table with an award that reflects the dedication of its staff, and the crucial work they do to teach and support students.”

The college was contacted for comment.