A threatened strike among one of the town hall’s biggest contractors has been called off at the 11th hour.

Workers at Kier Services, who provide maintainance to Islington Council properties, were due to walk out over a plan to change their pay date from the middle to the end of each month.

Staff feared the move could lead to further changes to their pay and conditions, but since the ballot Kier’s management has offered concessions to ease the switch.

A Kier spokesman said: “The change is being made to align the monthly payroll process across the entire enlarged group and mirrors the procedure adopted by most comparable employers.

“We are committed to continuing to work with and consult the unions.”