Avanti West Coast Train Strikes Set to Disrupt New Year Travel

Union members plan walkouts on December 31 and January 2 over a rest day working dispute, with further Sunday strikes scheduled through May.

The RMT union has announced strikes on Avanti West Coast services for New Year’s Eve and January 2, citing unresolved disputes over rest day working policies.
Avanti West Coast plans to operate a reduced schedule during the strikes, with limited services running on key routes such as London to Birmingham, Manchester, and Preston.
Further industrial action is planned every Sunday from January 12 to May 25, potentially causing ongoing disruptions for passengers over the coming months.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has called on Avanti West Coast and the RMT to return to negotiations, emphasizing the need to avoid prolonged disruption.
Passengers affected by the strikes can request full refunds or reschedule tickets for travel between December 30 and January 4, with no replacement buses available during the strike days.