Avanti West Coast Strikes to Disrupt New Year Travel and Beyond

Train managers will stage walkouts on December 31, January 2, and every Sunday through late May, citing disputes over rest day pay.

Avanti West Coast train managers, represented by the RMT union, will strike on December 31, January 2, and every Sunday from January 12 to May 25, impacting key intercity routes.
The dispute centers on rest day pay, with train managers rejecting Avanti's latest offer, which they claim is unfair compared to compensation for senior managers and drivers.
Avanti will operate significantly reduced services during the strikes, with limited hours and fewer trains on major routes, including London Euston to Birmingham, Manchester, and Glasgow.
Certain destinations, such as North Wales, Blackpool, and Edinburgh, will have no Avanti services on strike days, and passengers are advised to travel on alternative dates or seek full refunds.
RMT leadership has called for revised proposals from Avanti to prevent further disruptions, while Avanti urges customers to plan ahead and remains open to negotiations.