Our ref: FOI-0606-2425

Thank you for your request received by Transport for London (TfL) on 21 May 2024 asking for information about bathroom breaks for bus drivers.

Your request has been considered under the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and our information access policy. 

I can confirm that we do hold the information you require. You asked:

Please can you confirm whether or not bus drivers can use a pub toilet whilst on duty. If not, please can you provide this in writing.

The policy for drivers is generally not to enter licensed premises in uniform, but in some cases we have stands and routes that rely on drivers using pubs and bar toilets, so there are exceptions.

According to ‘The Blue Book’ of driver welfare there are three locations where we have formal agreements for drivers to use the toilets in licenced premises.

1.Brewers Fayre, Bexleyheath – Routes B13 & B14

2.Raging Bull Snooker Club, Greenford – Routes E1, E2, E3 & E11

3.The Finery PH, Great Castle Street – Routes 7, 159, N7 & N137

There is also one location that has on occasion allowed drivers to use their facilities. This is the new Beefeater restaurant on Beresford Street, Woolwich. This is directly opposite the Beresford Street / Macbean Street stand for the Routes 51, 99, 301 & 386.

If you are not satisfied with this response please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.

Yours sincerely,

Tahsin Prima

FOI Case Officer

General Counsel

Transport for London