Avanti West Coast faces strike action amid rest day dispute

Avanti West Coast Train Managers will stage strike action later this month after members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union rejected the company’s proposals on rest day working arrangements.

The strikes are expected to disrupt key routes from London to Chester and North Wales during the busy holiday travel period.

The industrial action will take place on Sunday 22 December, Monday 23 December, and Sunday 29 December. In a recent e-referendum, 92.8% of RMT members voted to reject Avanti West Coast’s proposals, with a turnout of 81%.

‘Clear Message to Management’

RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch criticised Avanti’s approach, arguing that Train Managers are being treated unfairly compared to senior managers.

“Avanti West Coast’s proposals have been decisively rejected by our Train Managers, sending a clear message to management that the current arrangements are unacceptable,” he said.

“Train Managers are being treated unfairly compared to senior managers, who receive significant payments for covering these roles. Our members have had enough, and this strike action demonstrates their determination to win a fair deal.”

The union called on Avanti to present “serious proposals” that reflect the importance of Train Managers to the railway and reiterated its willingness to negotiate.

“We remain ready to reach a negotiated settlement, and we urge management to show they are serious about resolving this dispute,” Lynch added.

Potential Travel Disruption

Avanti West Coast operates key rail services linking London Euston to Chester, North Wales, and destinations such as Holyhead and Llandudno Junction.

Journeys between London and Chester typically take just over two hours, with these routes serving as vital connections for commuters and holiday travellers alike.

The strikes, planned during the festive season, could cause significant disruption for passengers travelling to and from these destinations.

The rest day working arrangements at the heart of the dispute have been a contentious issue, with Train Managers pushing for parity with senior managers who receive additional payments for covering the same duties.

RMT members argue that the current proposals fail to adequately recognise their contributions, leaving them dissatisfied ahead of one of the busiest travel periods of the year.