Train strikes have been confirmed during the festive season period and Derby is set to be affected with Christmas chaos predicted.
Avanti West Coast Train Managers announced strike action on Tuesday, December 10, in response to unresolved disputes over rest day working arrangements. Members of the Rail, Maritime, and Transport Workers (RMT) union voted overwhelmingly against management’s latest proposals.
92.8% rejected the offer on a strong turnout of 81%.
Also read: Snow falls in Derby: Everything you need to know about 2024 cold snap
The strikes are set to disrupt services on key dates during the festive season:
- Sunday, December 22
- Monday, December 23
- Sunday, December 29
The dispute centres on what the union describes as “unfair treatment” of Train Managers compared to senior managers, who receive more substantial payments for performing similar roles.
RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch commented: “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.
“Train Managers are being treated unfairly compared to senior managers, who receive significant payments for covering these roles.”
Lynch highlighted the frustrations of union members, adding: “Our members have had enough, and this strike action demonstrates their determination to win a fair deal. It’s time for Avanti to put forward serious proposals that reflect the vital contribution of our Train Managers to the railway.”
The RMT has expressed its willingness to continue negotiations and urged Avanti to present improved proposals to avert further disruption.
Avanti West Coast confirmed the strike action but did not comment on the disputes leading to the action. A spokesperson for the operator said: “The RMT union has announced strike action affecting Avanti West Coast on 22, 23 and 29 December.
“On these dates, customers should expect timetables and operating hours to be reduced significantly. Services that do run are expected to be busy. We strongly advise customers to check before they travel.”
The planned strikes are expected to cause significant disruption to passengers travelling during the busy Christmas period. Travellers are advised to check schedules in advance and plan accordingly.
Avanti West Coast trains in Derby during Christmas Chaos
Avanti West Coast has trains that pass through Derby. Avanti West Coast trains serve major routes connecting London Euston with cities like Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, and Glasgow. Derby passengers often use these services via nearby hubs such as Birmingham New Street or Crewe. The planned strikes will likely disrupt services on these key routes, affecting connections for Derby travellers and beyond.
During strike days (December 22, 23, and 29), service levels will be reduced, with possible cancellations or delays. Avanti advises passengers to check schedules in advance and consider alternative travel plans
Which train journeys will be affected by strikes during Christmas?
Avanti West Coast sells tickets for the popular journey from Derby to London St Pancras International.
Avanti West Coast’s strike action during the Christmas period is expected to disrupt train journeys across its network, including services passing through Derby. The strikes will occur on December 22, 23, and 29, with significant impact on intercity services along the West Coast Main Line, connecting cities like London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Glasgow.
Although Avanti West Coast does not operate direct services starting from Derby, passengers planning journeys with connections to West Coast services at Birmingham or London Euston will face cancellations or altered schedules. Routes connecting Derby to London via other operators may also experience overcrowding or delays due to the ripple effects of the strike.
Avanti has advised travellers to check schedules for connecting services and avoid attempting travel on strike days wherever possible
What do I do if trains from Derby are cancelled?
With Avanti West Coast strikes expected to cause disruptions during Christmas, travellers from Derby should consider alternative routes for reaching major cities. Below are suggested options:
- London: Use East Midlands Railway (EMR) for direct services from Derby to London St Pancras. However, book in advance due to increased demand.
2. Birmingham: Local services via CrossCountry trains remain a reliable alternative for this short connection. These trains are less likely to be affected by the strike.
3. Manchester: Travel via EMR services to Sheffield and connect with TransPennine Express or Northern Rail to Manchester.
4. Leeds: Take EMR to Sheffield, then continue to Leeds with Northern Rail. Journey times may extend due to rerouted connections.
5. Glasgow: Consider travelling to Newcastle or Edinburgh via CrossCountry, then onward to Glasgow using ScotRail or LNER.
6. Liverpool: Use EMR to Crewe or Sheffield and connect via Northern Rail or Transport for Wales services to Liverpool.
Travel advice during train strikes and Christmas
Coaches: National Express and Megabus run regular services from Derby to major cities, often unaffected by rail disruptions.
Car Sharing: Platforms like BlaBlaCar provide affordable options for shared rides to popular destinations.
Advanced Bookings: With heightened demand, securing tickets early for any alternative mode is crucial.
Travellers are urged to monitor updates from rail providers and plan journeys well in advance to ensure smoother festive travels.
Watch train videos from Derby on TikTok
