Bus drivers at Westbourne Park garage are out on strike again today as part of an escalating dispute between Unite the Union and First Bus over pay. The strike, involving more than 350 workers employed by London Transit, follows earlier action taken just a month ago and is set to repeat on Monday 29 September.
The dispute centres around a pay offer Unite says is below inflation and does not reflect the rising cost of living for its members. A letter sent by Unite to management on 19 September confirmed two further strike dates, today and Monday, if the dispute remains unresolved.
Earlier this year, Unite members at several London bus garages staged multiple days of strike action as part of a wider wave of industrial unrest across the transport sector. Despite some progress with other operators, First Bus has failed to present a revised offer that addresses drivers’ concerns.
Image © London Bus Forums
The affected routes include the 218, 31, 295, 13, 23, and 452 These are key services across West and Central London that thousands of passengers rely on daily. London Transit has warned of delays and cancelled services as the walkout continues.
Unite regional officer Callum Rochford said:
“Our members are working harder than ever and keeping the network running, but they have had enough of seeing their wages fall behind while the company profits. Today’s strike shows the depth of anger across the depot.”
Image © London Bus Forums
Support for the strike has grown, with drivers being joined by local residents, retired workers and trade union allies. Cups of tea, snacks and good humour were in abundance at the picket lines throughout the morning.
Image © London Bus Forums
Unite has stated that it remains open to renewed talks but insists that any resolution must include a significantly improved offer on pay, backdated to April when negotiations began.
The next scheduled day of strike action is Monday 29 September unless a breakthrough is made before then.
This article will be updated with further developments. If you have photos, experiences or service updates to share, email [email protected]
