Rail services operated by TransPennine Express across York and North Yorkshire will face planned industrial action on three Sundays in October 2026: the 11th, 18th, and 25th. Members of the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers union (RMT) who work as train conductors intend to strike on these dates, resulting in substantial disruption.
Affected Routes and Service Areas
The strikes will impact TransPennine Express services running through York to Scarborough, Newcastle, Manchester Airport, and Liverpool. These key regional routes connecting major cities will face disruptions over the three strike Sundays.
Impact on TransPennine Express Services
On strike days, services will run on a significantly reduced timetable. Train cancellations
are likely, and trains that do run will be subject to disruption and expected to be very busy. The strike action affects most Sundays throughout October and will impact commuter and regional travel along these routes.
Official Statements and Travel Advice
A National Rail spokesperson confirmed: “There is industrial action planned to take place that will affect TransPennine Express services on most Sundays throughout October.” They added, “Trains that do run will be subject to disruption and are expected to be very busy.” National Rail advised passengers to travel only if their journeys are essential on strike dates and to plan for cancellations and schedule
changes.
RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey said the union will remain in dispute until a satisfactory agreement is reached with TransPennine Express management.
Background and Negotiations
The strike action results from unresolved negotiations between the RMT union and TransPennine Express. A previously planned strike for October 4, 2026 was suspended following further talks about productivity. However, ongoing disagreement has led to the strikes now scheduled on October 11, 18, and 25.
