Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) at East Midlands Railway (EMR) will strike on Sunday 30 and Monday 31 August 2026, affecting rail services to and from London. EMR will operate a significantly reduced timetable over both strike days, with passengers urged to travel only if journeys are essential.
RMT safety concerns trigger strike action on Class 810 trains
The RMT dispute centers on safety issues with Class 810 trains. Union members have been directed to refuse operation of trains exhibiting faults such as malfunctioning air conditioning, door issues, and non-working toilets until these problems are resolved. RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey stated: “RMT is demanding that
whilst these faults exist and until these trains are shown to be operating properly, they should be taken out of service.” He added, “It is now time for EMR management to act on the safety concerns of our members.” EMR has engaged in six rounds of constructive talks with the RMT in attempts to settle the dispute.
Network Rail signalling upgrade suspends LNER services between King’s Cross and Peterborough
On Sunday 30 August, no LNER trains will run between London King’s Cross and Peterborough due to Network Rail carrying out essential digital signalling upgrades. This coincides with the RMT strike, further reducing available services on the route during the bank holiday weekend.
Passenger impact and station crowding expected during bank holiday weekend
East Midlands Railway services to and from London St Pancras will be extremely busy on 30 and 31 August amid the combined effects of strike action and signalling works. Sheffield and Nottingham stations are anticipated to experience heavy passenger volumes, with queues likely to form for boarding trains. Philippa Cresswell, EMR Customer Experience Director, said: “We strongly advise customers to only travel to or from London if their journey is essential on Sunday 30 and Monday August 31, and to check their full journey, including first and last trains, before setting out.” Passengers should prepare for significant delays and cancellations
during the bank holiday.
Official statements and context of ongoing negotiations
EMR has reiterated its commitment to resolving the dispute through dialogue, highlighting that it has met RMT representatives six times. Philippa Cresswell apologized for the disruption caused, acknowledging the impact on bank holiday travel plans and referencing the earlier three Saturdays affected by RMT strike action in August. Despite ongoing discussions, the union maintains that train faults must be addressed before safe operation can resume.
Additionally, the bank holiday weekend weather forecast predicts a transition from late summer warmth to unsettled conditions, with potential heavy rain, thunderstorms, and localized flooding. This may compound travel disruptions during
a period that includes major events such as the Reading and Leeds festivals and London’s Notting Hill Carnival.
