Workers at Avanti West Coast have announced strikes beginning on New Year’s Eve as part of an ongoing dispute over enhanced pay for rest day working. The Rail, Maritime, and Transport (RMT) union, representing train managers, confirmed strikes will also take place on January 2 and Sundays between January 12 and May 25.
The disagreement centers on voluntary overtime payments covering staff absences. Despite a proposed deal put to a referendum, 83% of RMT members rejected the offer, prompting calls for sustained action.
An RMT spokesperson stated: “Our members have overwhelmingly rejected Avanti’s offer. Strikes are the only way to pressure management to negotiate seriously.”
Avanti West Coast acknowledged the potential for significant disruption, expressing disappointment at the rejection of what it described as a “reasonable” offer. The company has urged the union to resume talks.
The Department for Transport condemned the strikes, describing the move as “disappointing news” for passengers. Officials emphasized the importance of reforming the rail system to ensure a seven-day working week, reducing reliance on rest day working, and improving reliability for customers.
Strikes planned for December were suspended pending negotiations, but the failure to reach a resolution has reignited tensions. Passengers traveling on the West Coast Main Line should prepare for disruptions in the coming months as the dispute unfolds.
