Industrial action by members of the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) will impact Chiltern Railways services in the West Midlands on Saturday, October 10, 2026, and again on October 17, 2026.
Strike Dates, Locations, and Timetable Changes
RMT members will conduct picketing outside Birmingham Moor Street and Stourbridge Junction stations from 7:30 a.m. to midday on both strike days. Chiltern Railways anticipates operating more than 93% of its services despite the strikes.
Certain services will be cancelled or altered. No Chiltern Railways trains will run between Stratford-upon-Avon and Leamington Spa on October 10 and 17. On October 10, the 6:44 a.m. train
from Stourbridge Junction to London Marylebone will instead start from Banbury, while the 8:19 a.m. train will start from Birmingham Moor Street. In the evening, the 6:02 p.m. London Marylebone to Stourbridge Junction service will terminate at Birmingham Moor Street, and the 7:32 p.m. service will end at Banbury.
Dispute Over Staffing on East West Rail
The strikes arise from a dispute concerning staffing plans for East West Rail services between Oxford and Milton Keynes. The RMT opposes the proposed driver-only operation, demanding guarantees for the safety-critical role of a second crew member on board.
Chiltern Railways maintains that all East West Rail trains will have two
staff members: a driver and a colleague responsible for passenger assistance, ticket checks, and handling issues.
Official Statements from Chiltern Railways and RMT
Tony Baxter, interim managing director of Chiltern Railways, expressed disappointment over the strike action but said the company expects to run the majority of services to limit disruption. He confirmed that East West Rail services will have two onboard staff, with no role changes for existing employees and over 100 new permanent jobs created.
Baxter stated, “We have run most of our trains with the Driver in control of the doors for decades, safely and as approved by the independent rail regulator.” He urged
the RMT to engage in meaningful talks.
Eddie Dempsey, RMT general secretary, described Chiltern Railways’ refusal to address safety concerns as “totally unacceptable.” He said, “RMT will not accept the watering down of safety on the rail network.” The union remains open to negotiations with Chiltern Railways.
Passenger Guidance for Affected Travel
Passengers should expect service disruptions, cancellations, and altered train start or end points during the strikes in the West Midlands. Chiltern Railways advises travelers to check updated schedules and journey planners before traveling on October 10 and October 17, 2026.
Services between Stratford-upon-Avon and Leamington Spa will not operate on strike days, and
travelers should monitor updates to avoid inconveniences.
