More than 300 London bus drivers are set to strike later this week amid an ongoing dispute over alleged union busting and workplace bullying.
Stagecoach drivers based at the Lea Interchange Bus Garage in Leyton plan to walk out on Thursday, January 8, and Friday, January 9.
The action is expected to disrupt travel across east and northeast London. Passengers have been warned to expect little to no service on multiple routes. Delays are also anticipated on additional services operating through the area.
The Unite union said the industrial action follows what it described as aggressive and targeted behaviour toward depot representatives.
According to Unite, the issues emerged after a recent change in management at the garage.
The strike follows a previous walkout in mid-December.
That earlier action led to the suspension of services to Westfield Stratford City.
Unite confirmed that 98 percent of its members at the depot voted in favour of industrial action.
Regional officer John Murphy said the dispute was entirely the responsibility of the employer.
He said: “We understand that those who rely on these bus services will be concerned to hear of industrial action, but this dispute is entirely the fault of the employer for bullying hardworking members of its workforce.”
He added: “The ballot result shows the strength of solidarity between bus drivers and their colleagues who have been affected by union busting.” Murphy said management still had an opportunity to prevent further disruption.
He said that would require a fundamental change in behaviour toward union representatives.
Stagecoach London said it strongly rejected the claims made by the union. A spokesperson said the company “utterly refutes” allegations of bullying.
The statement added that all employees are held to the same standards of behaviour regardless of role. It said any misconduct allegations are handled in line with established procedures.
Stagecoach said it remained committed to working with Unite to resolve concerns. The company said its priority was to deliver a safe and reliable bus service while minimising disruption.
Stagecoach warned there would likely be little to no service on 12 routes during the strike. Those routes include 58, 97, 135, 236, 276, 308, 339, 488, D8, W13, W14 and 678.
Delays or cancellations may also affect route 86. All other bus routes and rail services are expected to operate as normal.
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