TfL urges essential travel only during planned RMT strike

Transport for London (TfL) is advising customers that there will be severe disruption across the Tube network, with little or no service expected between the evening of 7 January and the morning of 12 January 2024, if the planned strike by RMT members goes ahead.

TfL is making efforts to operate as much of the network as possible during the strike period. However, commuters should be prepared for significant changes to their travel plans, as the following disruptions are expected:

• 7 January 2024:
  • Tube services will end earlier than usual, with customers advised to complete their journeys by 17:30
  • Lines serving the Emirates will attempt to stay open longer, especially for football fans leaving matches. Services on these lines will begin closing from 19:30.
• 8 to 11 January 2024:
  • Severe disruption is anticipated, with little to no Tube service expected to run.
• 12 January 2024:
  • Tube services will start later than normal, and a good service is expected by 12:00.

While Londoners can still travel on London Overground, Elizabeth line, DLR (Docklands Light Railway), and Tram services, they may experience last-minute changes, including non-stop journeys at some stations shared with the London Underground. TfL anticipates these services will be busier than usual, urging customers to check for updates before travelling.

Talks between TfL and RMT are ongoing in an effort to avert the strike, which is primarily focused on pay and conditions. TfL has previously made a final offer to increase the base pay for all London Underground workers by 5%, a proposal accepted by members of the ASLEF union in November 2023.

Despite the Tube disruption, London buses are expected to operate normally during the strike. However, commuters are advised to allocate more time for their journeys as bus routes may experience increased congestion.

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For alternative travel options, TfL suggests walking or cycling for some journeys. Santander Cycles will be available, with strategically placed teams ensuring bikes are distributed according to demand. Rental e-scooters are also an option in select London boroughs.

Glynn Barton, TfL’s Chief Operating Officer, said:  ”We are disappointed that RMT is planning strike action in response to our offer of a 5% pay increase. We have been clear throughout our productive discussions with our trade unions that this offer is the most we can afford while ensuring that we can operate safely, reliably and sustainably. We encourage the RMT to engage with us to avoid disruption for Londoners.”

In response to the Tube strikes, Transport Watchdog expressed concern, “Towards the end of 2023, we saw London Underground journeys reach four million a day, so it’s clear that demand is well and truly back after the pandemic. We know that along with disruption to the tube next week, there will likely be an impact on Elizabeth line, London Overground and DLR services on each strike day too. If these strikes do go ahead as planned, they will be really disruptive for passengers. This is not the start to the new year Londoners wanted.”

To assist commuters in planning alternative routes, TfL is conducting a comprehensive communications campaign, featuring station announcements, posters, emails and social media updates.