Putney commuters can breathe easier this weekend after a major bus strike affecting dozens of routes across south-west London was largely called off yesterday, though transport bosses are now consulting on changes that could axe the vital Putney-Hammersmith Bridge bus connection.
The Unite union confirmed that London United drivers, engineers and controllers have accepted a pay offer and cancelled their planned weekend walkout that would have crippled services on about 60 routes from yesterday until Sunday evening. The strike had threatened routes including the 14, 22, and 74 that serve Putney Bridge and East Putney stations.
However, some disruption remains possible as negotiations continue between Unite and London Transit over separate pay disputes. Routes 13, 23, 31, 218, 295 and 452 could still face limited industrial action if no agreement is reached.
The weekend reprieve comes after days of transport chaos across London, with tube strikes crippling Underground services since Sunday and forcing thousands onto already-stretched bus networks. The resolution of most planned bus strike action provides crucial relief for weekend travel plans.
Critical consultation threatens local bus service
More concerning for long-term transport links, Transport for London has quietly launched a consultation proposing to scrap route 533 and make changes to routes 209, 378 and 485 around Barnes – changes that would end direct bus services between Putney and Hammersmith Bridge.
Under TfL’s proposals, route 209 would be extended to replace most of route 533, maintaining a Hammersmith-Castelnau connection but potentially cutting the crucial Putney link. Route 378 would be redirected to serve the London Wetlands Centre, while route 485 would terminate at Mortlake instead of continuing to Castelnau.
The consultation closes on Wednesday 22 October – just five weeks away – yet many Putney residents remain unaware of proposals that could severely impact their transport options, particularly for reaching Hammersmith without using the congested A4 corridor.
What this means for readers
This weekend’s transport should run largely as normal on bus routes, though check TfL updates for any remaining strike action. However, the Barnes bus consultation requires urgent attention from anyone who relies on bus connections between Putney and Barnes.
Residents concerned about losing the Putney-Hammersmith Bridge bus service should respond to TfL’s consultation before the 22 October deadline.
The proposals come as transport connectivity remains a critical issue for Putney, with Hammersmith Bridge still closed to motor traffic and limited river crossing options putting pressure on remaining transport links.
