London bus strikes suspended as drivers vote on new deal

Planned bus strikes in north London involving more than 1,500 Arriva drivers have been suspended. The walkouts, which began on Tuesday and were scheduled to run until August 21, were paused to allow members of the Unite union to vote on a new offer from Arriva.

The industrial action was centered on working conditions during hot weather. Drivers reported that many buses lack full air conditioning, relying instead on air-cooling ventilation that provides insufficient relief from high temperatures. Unite warned that extreme heat can lead to driver fatigue, dehydration, and heatstroke, potentially increasing the risk of road accidents.

If the union members reject the new deal, strike action is scheduled to resume on Tuesday, August 25. Arriva has stated that the wellbeing of colleagues and customers is a priority and is working with Transport for London to provide support.