London bus strikes: Potential bus strikes could cause chaos for East London's Christmas shoppers
Over 350 bus drivers in East London are currently deciding whether to strike. Affected services would include those running to the Westfield Shopping Centre in Stratford.
More than 350 bus drivers at the Lea Interchange Bus Garage in Leyton, east London, are being balloted for possible strike action, which could take place in early December if the vote is approved.
The workers, members of the Unite union, are employed by Lea Interchange Bus Company, part of Stagecoach. The ballot, which closes on 18 November, follows an internal dispute between union representatives and management at the depot.
If strike action goes ahead, it could affect several major bus routes across east London, including the 97, which serves Westfield Stratford City, as well as routes 58, 86, 135, 236, 276, 308, 339, 488, D8, W13, W14 and 678.
Unite has accused management of unfair treatment towards its representatives, but the company has not yet responded to the claims.
Any industrial action is likely to coincide with the busy Christmas shopping and travel period, potentially causing delays and cancellations for commuters and visitors across the area.
The affected services are operated under contract to Transport for London (TfL), which oversees the capital’s bus network but is not directly involved in the employment dispute.
Passengers are advised to check TfL’s live travel updates and the TfL Go app for the latest information on services and any potential disruption if strikes go ahead.