Bristol bus strikes suspended as drivers to face fresh ballot
Further planned dates will be subject to a ballot
Last updated 26th Sep 2025
Bus strikes due to resume in Bristol on Wednesday have been suspended, according to the operator First Bus.
Around 600 drivers with the Unite union had been due to walk out for a further two weeks from October 1st in their ongoing pay dispute.
Following negotiations through ACAS, the company says planned industrial action from 1-5 October has now been suspended.
Further planned dates will be subject to a ballot on a revised offer next week.
Managing Director Doug Claringbold said: “We welcome today’s announcement from Unite the Union that planned strike action in Bristol has been suspended while union members are balloted on our offer. The action has been suspended up to and including 5 October, with any action after that date being subject to the outcome of the ballot next week.
“We recognise the frustration and inconvenience that strikes cause our customers and we want to avoid further action. We continue to urge the union to work with us to deliver a resolution acceptable to all parties.”
Unite regional officer Amy Roberts said: "Following a meeting between Unite, the company and Acas, a revised pay offer was put on the table. We have suspended strike action to allow members to vote on this."