London bus drivers to strike over working conditions in extreme heat

More than 1,500 bus drivers across eight garages are set to strike in a dispute over working conditions during hot weather.Members of Unite employed by Arriva North London will walk out on several dates between mid-August and October, with major disruption expected to bus services across north London and parts of Essex.The union says most Arriva North London buses are fitted with air cooling systems rather than air conditioning, leaving drivers exposed to unbearable temperatures during periods of extreme heat.While drivers have been told they can take breaks when needed, many feel under pressure to keep services running for the sake of passengers.The dispute comes as London experiences another summer of high temperatures, with heatwaves placing pressure on the capital's ageing transport infrastructure. Unite is calling on Arriva to improve working conditions to better protect drivers during extreme heat.Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "Time and time again drivers have complained to Arriva North London about working in dangerous conditions but the company has failed to act which is completely unacceptable."A profitable company such as Arriva could easily invest in improving conditions for its drivers and protecting the general public but is instead prioritising greed. We will back our members all the way in this dispute.”Where in London is affected by bus strikes and what routes?Exact bus route affected have not been released by the union.Drivers involved in the dispute are based at the following stations where disruption is likely.What dates are the strikes taking place?Services may be delayed or cancelled during strike days and some of the planned dates are taking place at the same time as closures on the Piccadilly Line in August and September.Read MoreWasim Mohammed, Arriva London’s managing director said: "We take the welfare of our drivers seriously, and understand the impact of this extreme weather on them."We are working closely with Transport for London to support both our colleagues and customers during these hot spells. We've introduced short-term measures to protect drivers, and we're investing in longer-term fixes, including cab air conditioning upgrades and our ongoing investment in new fleet."We remain ready to sit down with Unite at any time to discuss these important issues and find a resolution that avoids both strike action and the disruption it would cause to customers."