Rail travellers are set to face significant disruptions during the week of the May Bank Holiday, as train drivers across 16 companies prepare for a series of one-day strikes alongside an overtime ban, spanning from May 6 to May 11. This industrial action, spearheaded by the train drivers’ union Aslef, targets improved pay and working conditions.

The strikes are scheduled as follows:

• May 7: Affected operators include c2c, Greater Anglia, Great Northern, Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern, Gatwick Express, and the main line and Island Line of South Western Railway.
• May 8: Strikes will impact Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Great Western Railway, and West Midlands Trains.
• May 9: LNER, Northern Trains, and TransPennine Express will experience walkouts.

Passengers are advised to verify their travel plans as these actions are expected to cause considerable delays and cancellations, particularly disrupting the Bank Holiday travel on May 6.

Aslef is advocating for enhanced remuneration for its members and has voiced concerns over the demand for compromised working conditions in return for wage increases. Mick Whelan, the general secretary of Aslef, remarked on the stagnant negotiations, highlighting that it has been a year since any substantial dialogue has occurred between the union and the rail companies. He criticized the companies for extending offers that seemed designed to be rejected.

The Rail Delivery Group, representing the rail operators, expressed disappointment over the strikes, noting the severe inconvenience for travellers and the ongoing financial strain on the railways, which continue to operate at a loss funded by taxpayer contributions. They emphasized their commitment to reaching a fair settlement that balances the needs of workers, passengers, and the public purse.

This ongoing dispute saw its last significant action in early April, with further disruptions narrowly avoided on the London Underground after scheduled strikes were cancelled due to successful negotiations.

As the situation unfolds, both passengers and operators are bracing for a challenging start to May, with hopes still lingering for a resolution that can avert further impacts on the UK’s rail services.