Around 1700 London bus drivers are set to strike for four days this month after the union Unite announced industrial action affecting Arriva London staff.
Unite, which says the drivers have rejected a 7% pay increase, revealed the workers will strike on 20-21 June and, if the dispute is not resolved, on 27-28 June.
The action will hit services in North and East London when staff at the Ash Grove, Barking, Clapton, Edmonton, Enfield, Palmers Green, Tottenham and Wood Green depots walk out. The union says the drivers start on £13.65 an hour.
Unite regional officer Steven Stockwell says: “The strike action is set to create travel chaos across London but this dispute is totally of Arriva’s own making. It has had every chance to make our members an offer that meets their expectations but has refused to do so.”
A statement from Arriva London read: “We remain focused on offering a fair and affordable pay deal and urge Unite to call off their planned action and resume talks.”
A spokesperson for Transport for London adds: “We encourage both parties to get round the table and find a solution.”
A week-long strike in March by National Express West Midlands drivers was ended after Unite members accepted a 16.2% increase that saw experienced drivers able to earn over £33,000.
