New Train Strikes Announced For Multiple Dates In October

Laura Reynolds
By Laura Reynolds Last edited 19 months ago

Last Updated 22 September 2022

New Train Strikes Announced For Multiple Dates In October
A dark blue Southeastern train pulled up alongside a platform at Waterloo East, with the South Bank towers and London Eye visible beyond the station
Southeastern is one of the companies taking part in the strike

There will be more train strikes on Saturday 1 and Wednesday 5 October, it has been announced.

Members of the ASLEF Union working for 12 different train operating companies will strike on both of these days. Companies affected can be found on the ASLEF website.

Separately, members of the RMT Union are also striking on 1 October (but not 5 October), affecting Network Rail, several train operating companies, and some bus services — a full list is available on the RMT website.

Thankfully, TfL and London Underground aren't taking part in this strike, though their services may well be busier as a result of people seeking alternative routes into and around the capital.

Southeastern Railway — which serves south-east London, Kent and parts of Sussex — has already said it is unlikely to be able to run any trains during the strike days. Other operators may make similar announcements in the coming days.

If you need to travel on these days, keep an eye on your train company's website or social media for updates.

If, as with previous strikes, there's a delay in services starting up the next day, London Marathon participants could be affected. This year's event takes place on Sunday 2 October, and many runners use Southeastern services to reach the start line at Greenwich and Blackheath. It could also cause problems for any runners heading to London to collect their race numbers on Saturday, as these have to be collected before race day.

The reason for this latest strike? Pay. Train drivers are asking for a pay increase in line with the increased cost of living.

Update 22 September: The RMT Union has now said its members are holding another day of strike action on Saturday 8 October, with staff from Network Rail and 15 train operating companies taking part.