Arriva bus drivers in Barnet and north London to strike over cab heat risks
More than 1,500 drivers will walk out on 14 days in August, September and October, disrupting routes across eight garages.
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Bus services across Barnet and north London will face severe disruption as more than 1,500 Arriva drivers stage strikes over working conditions in extreme heat. Unite, the union representing the drivers, announced walkouts on 14 days in August, September and October, starting on 14 August.
The strikes affect eight garages, including Palmers Green and Tottenham, which serve routes through Barnet. Drivers have reported cab temperatures exceeding 40°C during heatwaves, leading to heat exhaustion and dehydration. Unite says Arriva has repeatedly ignored complaints about the conditions.
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Why drivers are striking
Unite alleges that Arriva North London has failed to address safety concerns despite multiple warnings. Most Arriva buses in the region are fitted with air cooling systems, which the union claims reduce temperatures by only two to three degrees. Drivers say this leaves cabs dangerously hot during summer peaks.
Sharon Graham, Unite’s general secretary, said Arriva’s inaction was "completely unacceptable". She added, "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." This Is Local London reported her statement.
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We will back our members all the way in this dispute.
Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary
The dispute also includes allegations of union busting. Unite claims Arriva North London management has bullied its representatives and members. Steven Stockwell, Unite’s regional officer, said the company had "completely failed to listen" to drivers. He urged Arriva to enter talks to resolve the issue before strikes begin.
Arriva’s response and financial position
Arriva reported a pre-tax profit of €156 million and an operating profit of €127 million in its mid-2025 financial results. The company said it is investing in long-term solutions, including cab air conditioning upgrades and a new fleet. Wasim Mohammed, managing director of Arriva London, said the company takes driver welfare seriously.
Mohammed told This Is Local London, "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 remain ready to sit down with Unite at any time to discuss these important issues."
Impact on Barnet and next steps
The strikes will coincide with planned closures on the Piccadilly Line, increasing disruption for commuters in Barnet. Passengers are advised to check for delays and cancellations on affected routes, particularly those served by Palmers Green and Tottenham garages.
Unite has provided drivers with an official letter to present to employers if cab conditions become unsafe. The letter cites Section 44 of the Employment Rights Act 1996, which protects workers who stop work due to serious health risks. London Mayor Sadiq Khan has endorsed the letter, stating drivers have the right to refuse work in extreme heat.
The next formal step is unclear. Unite has not indicated whether further strikes will be called if the dispute remains unresolved. Arriva has said it is open to talks but has not proposed a specific date for negotiations.
Questions this report answers
+Which Barnet bus routes will be affected by the strikes?
Routes served by Palmers Green and Tottenham garages will face disruption. These include services through Barnet, such as the 102, 144, and 232. Passengers should check Arriva’s website for updates on specific routes and cancellations.
+How much profit did Arriva make in 2025?
Arriva reported a pre-tax profit of €156 million and an operating profit of €127 million in mid-2025. The company said it is investing in air conditioning upgrades and a new fleet to improve driver conditions.
+What happens if a driver refuses to work due to heat?
Drivers can stop work if cab conditions are unsafe, under Section 44 of the Employment Rights Act 1996. Unite has provided an official letter for drivers to present to employers, which London Mayor Sadiq Khan has endorsed.
+When are the next strike dates?
Strikes are planned for 14 to 15, 18 to 21, and 25 to 28 August, with further dates in September and October. The full list includes 14 days between August and October, coinciding with Piccadilly Line closures.
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