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Bus drivers announce new fortnight-long strike
Six hundred First bus drivers have voted to strike for a further two weeks between October 1 and 14.
The affected depots are Lawrence Hill and Hengrove, with Unite saying that the new strike will cause significant disruption due to “the number of drivers involved and the length of the second wave of strikes”.
The decision has come after talks over pay between Unite, the union representing the drivers, and First West of England fell through.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “First Bus is a very profitable firm, but its hardworking workers are struggling to pay the bills.
“The situation is deplorable and it is little wonder they have voted to take further industrial action.”
A perfect opportunity to say cheers to your striking drive today. Drivers across Bristol are on strike until Friday in a dispute over pay. pic.twitter.com/30JvPMWhFE
— Martin Booth (@beardedjourno) September 16, 2025
Unite believes that the current pay does not adequately reflect the long hours and risks drivers face.
One of the drivers said: “We are striking for better pay because we don’t believe the company’s offer is fair and reasonable. We believe we are worth more than what it has offered us.”
The drivers have been striking for four days since Tuesday, with this current strike due to culminate in a demonstration on Friday on Broad Quay.
Main photo: Martin Booth
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