London bus drivers to strike over unsafe heatwave conditions

More than 1,500 drivers employed by Arriva North London across eight garages in north London will walk out, organized by the Unite union, after complaining that cab temperatures have risen to 40 °C and that existing ventilation systems merely blow outside air. Drivers describe the cabs as "greenhouses" and say the heat creates fatigue and safety risks for passengers and pedestrians.

Unite has scheduled 26 days of strike action between mid‑August and mid‑October, with specific dates from 14 August to 20 October. Union leaders warned that the disruption could coincide with planned Piccadilly line closures. 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." Regional officer Steven Stockwell added, "We know those who rely on these bus services will be dismayed to hear of industrial action, but it is entirely the fault of Arriva who has completely failed to listen to our members."