Matthew SparkesBus drivers in Norwich are being balloted on a proposed pay rise.Under the plans staff would get a 2.73pc raise, as well as a one-off payment of �125 per driver.Matthew Sparkes

Bus drivers in Norwich are being balloted on a proposed pay rise.

Under the plans staff would get a 2.73pc raise, as well as a one-off payment of �125 per driver.

Pay for drivers on rest days would also increase to �8, but all other terms and conditions would remain the same.

Unite, which represents First drivers, has urged staff to take the deal.

But a source said that it was possible staff would call for strike action in response to the offer.

A ballot on the decision is open until the end of today and a decision on the deal is expected to be announced later this week.

A spokesperson for First East England said: 'We are pleased to say that our offer is being recommended for acceptance to our drivers by the union.'

'The drivers are now being balloted on the offer and we await the outcome.'

Last year First drivers in many parts of the country staged a series of day-long strikes in response to a pay freeze by the company.

Earlier this week it emerged that First may move from its controversial site on Vulcan Road in Hellesdon.

Residents in the area had complained of dust and fumes in their gardens and of being woken up by bright lights and loud engine noise early in the morning.

The company may relocate to a warehouse in Lansdowne Road in Catton Grove, if councillors give the plans the go ahead at a meeting tomorrow .