The threat of inevitably crippling strikes has been averted with Network Rail workers voting to accept a two-year pay offer.
Members of the RMT union backed a fresh deal agreeing a two per cent pay rise this year, an increase in line with RPI inflation next year and an assurance of no compulsory redundancies. It was supported by 7,449 votes to 1,598.
It brings to an end a dispute which threatened to spark large-scale industrial action which some feared could have halted an overwhelming majority of services for as much as two days.
RMT general secretary Mick Cash said: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank Network Rail members for their determination, solidarity and support for their union over the last months.
"Without it this deal would simply not have been possible. It just goes to show what can be achieved when members stand united and are prepared to fight for decent pay and conditions."
Mark Carne, Network Rail chief executive, said: "This has clearly been a difficult period of uncertainty for our employees and for the people and businesses that depend on us. I am therefore pleased that we've come to an agreement.
"What has been clear to me throughout these negotiations is the passion we all share for the railway.
"I'm confident we will all now move forward together, translating that passion into improvements that will drive up our performance and deliver a better service for our customers."
Additional reporting by PA
