London bus drivers have secured a major agreement to install air conditioning in all cabs by next year, as Mayor Sadiq Khan hails the new settlement.
Following discussions between Mayor Sadiq Khan, Transport for London and the Unite union, air conditioning will be installed in all bus driver cabs by the end of May 2027.
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The agreement will ensure that buses will be retrofitted with modern ventilation and air conditioning in all drivers’ cabs.
It comes after a summer of extreme weather where bus drivers struggled to cope with record temperatures while travelling around the capital.
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The Extreme Weather Taskforce brought together representatives from Transport for London (TfL), Unite the Union, London’s bus operators and the Greater London Authority.
It aims to improve working conditions for drivers during periods of extreme weather, which will also future-proof London’s bus network.
New buses entering the fleet will be subject to more rigorous air conditioning and ventilation standards than older vehicles.
Progress has been made in retrofitting the driver’s cab of the iconic New Routemaster bus with the latest air conditioning.
The bus is currently being trialled in service and has received encouraging feedback from drivers.
A second New Routemaster has been upgraded with a different specification to create a robust supply chain and meet the demands of retrofitting.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan praised the new measures and thanked bus drivers across the capital for helping passengers, even during extreme temperatures over the summer.
He added: “It’s great news that TfL have reached this historic agreement to provide air conditioning in every single bus cab. We need to look after our customers and our workers.
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“The new Taskforce has made excellent progress and demonstrates what can be delivered through collaborative working with trade unions.
“As long as I am Mayor, TfL will continue working closely with operators and drivers to deliver further improvements, ensuring London’s bus network remains a safe and supportive place to work for every bus driver, as we build a fairer, safer London for all.”
Various measures are being explored to keep buses cool during extreme temperatures, including solar film technology with UV protection.
Other factors include improved driver seating featuring heating and ventilation, access to hydration and welfare facilities, and other practical interventions that can support drivers.
TfL reported that all members of the taskforce are encouraged by the progress so far and will continue to communicate openly with stakeholders.
Lorna Murphy, TfL’s Director of Buses, said the organisation remains fully committed to maintaining momentum as the taskforce develops immediate and long-term benefits.
She continued, saying: “This taskforce is ambitious about what can be achieved, but we are equally focused on ensuring solutions are workable, evidence-based and deliver lasting benefits.
“The progress made in a short period shows what can be achieved when all parties work together towards a common goal.”
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