London Bus Workers Initiate Strike Over Pay Dispute, Routes Disrupted

Passengers using London buses should prepare for significant disruptions as approximately 350 workers from London Transit, a subsidiary of First Bus, are set to strike over what they consider a “disgraceful” pay offer. The strikes are scheduled to take place from November 14 through November 17-18 and November 26-28, impacting various routes across Southwest, West, and Northwest London.

The workers, which include drivers, engineers, and storemen based at the Westbourne Park depot in Notting Hill, have expressed their frustration over a pay package that does not match inflation. Transport for London has announced that passengers can expect “little or no service” on seven specific routes during the strike days, starting from 5:00 AM on each strike day until 5:00 AM on the following non-strike day. Disruptions will also affect night buses and 24-hour routes.

Union leader Sharon Graham, General Secretary of Unite, criticized the company’s approach, stating, “This is disgraceful behaviour from a company making millions from London bus passengers. It shows an utter disregard for its workers and the hard work they do day in, day out.” She affirmed that Unite will fully support its members in this ongoing dispute, highlighting First Bus’s history of anti-worker practices.

The current situation follows a previous industrial action involving over 2,000 bus workers, who also protested the same pay issue earlier this autumn. A primary point of contention is First Bus’s alleged refusal to backdate all elements of the pay offer, which means drivers could miss out on hundreds of pounds in back pay.

In response to the strike ballot results, a spokesperson for First Bus expressed disappointment, asserting that the company has provided an “enhanced, above-inflation offer with full back pay for all employees.” They emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting its workforce amid rising living costs, despite the challenging financial climate.

During the upcoming strike action, all other bus routes, as well as Tube and rail services, will continue to operate as scheduled. However, one can expect busier-than-usual journeys, and passengers are advised to allow extra time for their travels.

The seven London bus routes anticipated to be affected by the strikes include:
– 13
– 23
– 31
– N31
– 218
– 295
– 452

As the situation develops, commuters in London are encouraged to stay informed and plan their journeys accordingly to mitigate the impact of the strike.