Bus Strike Traffic

A Sheffield bus strike causes traffic congestion in this film that shows the significant local impact that a workplace dispute can have.

This intriguing film depicts the true effects of the 1959 Sheffield bus strikes that brought the city centre to a halt due to severe traffic congestion. Throughout the film, the camera is fascinated by the endless lines of cars and the policemen, clad in white coats, directing the traffic with orchestrated hand and head movements.

The bus strike took place during the autumn of 1959 in Sheffield. Bus staff were said to be dissatisfied with the standing passengers agreement that had been implemented. The film was shot on locations throughout the city by Sheffield City Engineers Department from 20th-22nd October 1959.