Severe disruption expected as bus drivers strike

Bus passengers are being warned of severe disruption as drivers are set to strike for four days over a pay dispute.

During the industrial action from 16 to 19 September, 600 drivers for First West of England's Citylines service, who work on inner-city routes in Bristol and the service to the city's airport, will walk out.

Badgerline bus services, which cover the areas around the city, will operate as normal after drivers on those routes accepted the pay offer.

"While this was our full and final pay offer, we still hope to find a solution with the trade union which encourages them to call off these disruptive strikes," said Doug Claringbold, managing director of First Bus West of England.

Industrial action from 4 to 8 September had been suspended to allow union members to vote on a new pay offer after drivers previously rejected a two-year pay deal.

However, members have voted to reject First's latest offer.

The company is part of First Group PLC. Last year, the group recorded an operating profit of £204.3m and share dividends were increased by 45%, compared to the previous year.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "First Group is a very profitable company and can afford to come back with an improved offer that is acceptable to our bus drivers.

She added that company was "putting profits over people".

Unite regional officer Ken Fish said: "There is still an opportunity for First West of England to come back to the negotiating table to stop this disruptive strike action."

Revised timetables to reflect the "much lower level" of service will be released online by the operator shortly.

Customers intending to use the buses are advised to plan ahead and check for updates before they travel.

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