TfL Bus Staff Set to Strike at the same time as Tube Workers causing Chaos across the Capital

More than 150 Transport for London (TfL) staff are preparing to take industrial action in a dispute over changes to working patterns.

The strike, involving roles such as bus station controllers and network traffic controllers, is scheduled to run from April 23 to 25. It is expected to coincide with separate action by RMT workers on the London Underground, increasing the likelihood of widespread disruption across the capital’s transport network.

Dispute Over Working Conditions

The Unite union has raised concerns over newly introduced rosters, which it says have been imposed without agreement. According to the union, the changes could require staff to work more weekends and travel longer distances to unfamiliar locations across London.

Union representatives argue this could increase fatigue among workers and potentially expose them to disciplinary action if they are unable to reach new work sites on time.

Sharon Graham, general secretary of Unite, criticised the changes, describing them as unacceptable and calling on TfL to reconsider its approach. She said the union would continue to support members in resisting changes that could negatively affect their working conditions.

Potential Impact on Services

The industrial action is likely to have a significant effect on bus services, particularly given the overlap with planned Tube strikes. Unite has warned that the absence of key control staff could leave the network without essential oversight.

Controllers play a critical role in assessing safety risks, managing diversions and responding to incidents. Without them, the union says, it may not be possible to operate services as normal.

Concerns Ahead of Major Events

The timing of the strike could also disrupt preparations for the London Marathon on April 26. Controllers are responsible for organising bus diversions and ensuring signage is in place in the lead-up to the event.

Unite regional officer Nadine Edwards said staff felt they had been left with no option but to take action, accusing TfL of failing to address their concerns.

She added that there is still an opportunity to avoid disruption if TfL engages with workers and presents proposals that reflect the importance and complexity of their roles within London’s transport system.