Kumail Jaffer

Transport for London is being urged to increase investment in refurbishing and replacing ageing London Underground escalators after Freedom of Information data showed that 153 of 566 escalators were operating beyond their expected shelf life. Labour London Assembly transport spokesperson Elly Baker warned that TfL’s risk-based maintenance approach was causing more unexpected failures and could undermine London’s target for 80% of journeys to be made by walking, cycling or public transport by 2041. TfL said 95% of its escalators were available and that replacement decisions are prioritized using usage, safety and condition assessments. In 2025–26, it spent £56.1 million on escalators, including £17.5 million in capital expenditure.

The London Assembly is urging the government to give Transport for London full oversight of driverless taxi trials, arguing that current arrangements may undermine London's devolved transport powers. The Department for Transport says TfL consent is required for passenger services and that it is working with the agency. Uber and Wayve are seeking approval for trials, while Waymo is already testing autonomous vehicles in London. Officials also warn about road safety, data-sharing, regulatory loopholes and possible job losses among taxi and private-hire drivers.

Residents near several London Underground lines report severe noise and vibration, prompting calls from London Assembly member Elly Baker for a full investigation. Complaints highlight disturbances in areas such as Brent, Kennington, Islington, Camden and South Wimbledon. Sadiq Khan acknowledges the impact and notes TfL’s ongoing grinding work and dedicated funding to reduce track noise. TfL states that minimising noise remains a priority and cites measures including removing insulated rail joints and improving track conditions.

Campaigners are urging the Greater London Authority to adopt a standardised Right to Grow policy allowing communities to cultivate unused public land. Several boroughs already support the initiative, but advocates argue citywide adoption would improve food security and biodiversity amid high demand for allotments. A report from the London People’s Assembly outlines proposals to expand community growing spaces, while City Hall highlights existing green space initiatives but has not committed to a formal framework.

A report from Central London Forward warns climate change could cost London up to £15bn annually by 2050 without major government action. It highlights increased heatwaves, flooding and drought risks, and urges the Greater London Authority to expand green spaces, improve drainage and retrofit social housing. The mayor’s office says it is coordinating with boroughs and services through its Heat Ready London plan to strengthen climate resilience across the capital.

A report from Central London Forward warns that climate change could cost London up to £15bn annually by 2050 due to escalating heatwaves, floods and drought. It urges the Greater London Authority to expand green spaces, improve drainage, and secure sustainable funding for climate adaptation. City Hall says it is coordinating with boroughs, health services, TfL and emergency responders, and recently launched the Heat Ready London initiative to enhance resilience for vulnerable residents and critical infrastructure.

London Assembly members unanimously supported a motion to establish a Bill of Rights for bus drivers, calling for guaranteed access to facilities, rest breaks and safe working conditions during extreme heat. The move follows reports of cab temperatures reaching 50C and unions raising concerns that operators, particularly Arriva, have not invested adequately in cooling systems. Mayor Sadiq Khan previously assured drivers they would not be penalised for halting work due to heat, while Transport for London said it is working with operators to improve welfare standards. Nearly 2,000 drivers are being balloted for potential strike action over heatwave conditions, which unions warn could cause widespread disruption.

London Assembly members unanimously supported a motion for a Bus Driver Bill of Rights aimed at improving working conditions, including access to toilets, proper rest breaks, safe reporting channels and functioning temperature-control systems. The move follows severe heatwave conditions that reportedly left some drivers working in cabs as hot as 50C. Unite has criticised Arriva, TfL and the mayor for not doing enough to address safety, while operators and TfL said they are working to improve conditions. A Green Party–led petition and an ongoing strike ballot among nearly 2,000 drivers underscore rising concerns about heat-related risks and potential service disruptions.

The London Assembly’s Planning and Regeneration Committee warned that new towns planned in Enfield and Thamesmead will only be effective if launched with strong transport links, green spaces and sufficient social housing. Enfield Council has withdrawn support, arguing the development would harm the green belt, prompting criticism from the Centre for Cities and a challenge from the government. City Hall said it will continue working with local councillors as the debate over the proposed developments continues.