More than 1,900 bus drivers across ten Arriva North London garages will be balloted on strike action over hot working conditions, threatening severe disruption for commuters. The ballot, running from July 1 to July 29, follows a record-breaking heatwave that saw London’s hottest June day with temperatures reaching 36.4°C.
Garages Affected and Potential Impact
The affected garages are Barking, Clapton, Dartford, Edmonton, Enfield, Grays, Palmers Green, Stamford Hill, Tottenham and Wood Green. If the strike proceeds, it could cause major delays and disruption across the north London bus network.
Unite the union claims Arriva failed to act on driver complaints about working conditions during the hot weather. The union argues that air cooling systems on buses are insufficient, reducing onboard temperatures by only two or three degrees instead of the usual maximum of ten degrees during the recent heatwave. Officials say issues with cooling systems have been raised with Arriva for years but no action was taken. Drivers are demanding the installation of air conditioning.
Union and Company Statements
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "Bus drivers have suffered in these scorching temperatures for long enough and the situation is getting worse. Arriva must stop putting profits before people and invest in much better systems to keep buses cool. Our members there have Unite’s full support in their fight for decent working conditions."
Unite regional officer Steven Stockwell added: "Arriva has failed to provide our members with a safe and comfortable working environment during the hot weather. This is putting bus drivers and passengers at risk and our members believe they have no choice but to ballot for industrial action. We recognise that those who use these bus services may be frustrated to hear this news, but this is a serious safety issue. It is on Arriva to create a safer environment, not just for our members but the general public and it must do this immediately or face disruption."
A spokesperson for Arriva London said: "We’re aware that Unite plans to ballot its members about industrial action. We will continue to work with Unite and try our best to find a resolution."
