How Train Strikes Will Impact Travel Across The UK This Spring
Train strikes are set to cause major travel disruption across the UK this spring as drivers at multiple rail companies and London Underground walk out in April and May over pay and conditions. Union ASLEF, which represents the vast majority of train drivers, has announced a series of one-day strikes targeting both commuter routes and long-distance travel over the two month period. Passengers are being warned to expect severe disruption on strike dates with little or no service on some lines.
The first train strikes will take place on Friday April 5th targeting operators such as Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway and West Midlands Trains. Further action will follow on Saturday April 6th impacting Chiltern Railways, Great Western Railway and more. Two days of London Underground strikes called by ASLEF are also planned for April 8th and May 4th, threatening severe disruption to the Tube network in the capital. With multiple companies involved, the strikes threaten to virtually shut down the rail system on key dates.
Why Are The Train Strikes Happening?
ASLEF says the train strikes are necessary as existing pay offers from operators amount to significant pay cuts when inflation is taken into account. The union claims drivers are being asked to work longer hours for less pay in the name of increased flexibility and efficiency. While negotiations are ongoing, ASLEF says real improvements are needed to reward staff and prevent the erosion of working conditions and pay. This comes amid the ongoing cost of living crisis across the UK.
With talks so far failing to reach an agreement avoiding industrial action, the spring train strikes look set to go ahead as planned unless a last-minute deal can be brokered. Commuters face severe disruption with some routes having little or no service on strike dates. Passengers are urged to only travel if necessary and check for updates from individual operators on the impact to services. The train strikes threaten to further exacerbate the country’s travel woes in the coming months.
