Train managers have commenced a series of strikes affecting key rail routes, causing significant travel disruptions. The strikes, led by members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) at Avanti West Coast, began today with picket lines forming outside major stations such as London Euston, Liverpool, and Edinburgh. The industrial action is part of an ongoing dispute over rest day working and will take place every Sunday until 25 May.
Passengers are facing reduced timetables and fewer services operating during limited hours on strike days. With engineering works also planned on many of these Sundays, the timetables may vary and take longer to finalize. Trains that are running are expected to be busy, prompting Avanti to advise passengers to plan ahead and check the details of their last train home.
Kathryn O’Brien, executive director of customer experience at Avanti West Coast, expressed disappointment over the extended strike action. “We’re disappointed by the RMT calling strike action for an extended period when our customers may be working, visiting family and friends, or enjoying days out,” she said. “As a result, they will face significantly disrupted journeys during this time. I would like to thank them for their patience and understanding.”
O’Brien further advised, “On the strike days, we’ll have a reduced service, so customers with tickets for those days are strongly advised to travel on alternative dates or claim a full fee-free refund. We remain open to working with the RMT to resolve the dispute.”
RMT general secretary Mick Lynch, who recently announced his retirement, criticized Avanti’s handling of the situation. “It is wrong that Avanti is paying replacement managers up to £500 per shift—around double what our members earn—while these managers fail to deliver the same service for passengers,” Lynch said. “This destructive approach is typical of train operating companies and stems from the failed policies of the previous Conservative government, which rewarded excessive payouts for managers rather than resolving disputes fairly.”
Lynch emphasized the need for a fair settlement, said, “Avanti could make better use of its resources by reaching a fair settlement with our members, which would also be far more cost-effective. At the core of this issue is a severe staffing shortage, which has created an over-reliance on overtime in the first place. Avanti needs to table a revised offer that meets the aspirations of our members. We remain ready to negotiate and reach a fair deal.”
The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has warned of the economic impact of the strikes, estimating potential losses of £1 billion to the sector, which includes restaurants, clubs, bars, and casinos. Michael Kill, NTIA’s chief executive, urged government action, stating, “If the government cannot bring unions and operators to the table for a meaningful resolution, the UK risks deeper economic losses. The time for inaction has passed—leadership is urgently needed.”
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