Members of the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) plan strike action on October 11, 18, and 25, 2026, affecting TransPennine Express rail services in York and North Yorkshire. This industrial action will disrupt train operations across the region on three Sundays in October, according to the Gazette & Herald.
TransPennine Express Routes Affected
TransPennine Express operates important routes passing through York, including connections to Scarborough, Newcastle, Manchester Airport, and Liverpool. These services will experience significant disruption, with trains running to a reduced timetable and cancellations likely on the strike dates.
Official Statements and Strike Suspension
A National Rail spokesperson confirmed, “There is industrial action planned
to take place that will affect TransPennine Express services on most Sundays throughout October.” The spokesperson added, “Trains across the TransPennine network will be running to a reduced timetable with cancellations likely, on these three Sundays.” The previously planned strike for October 4 was suspended to allow further productivity negotiations after an agreement to return to talks. An RMT spokesperson verified this suspension.
Passenger Impact and Travel Advice
Passengers using rail services in York and North Yorkshire should anticipate disruptions on October 11, 18, and 25. The reduced timetable will mean fewer trains operating, and those that run are expected to be very busy. The
National Rail spokesperson advised, “Passengers are advised to travel on the affected dates only if their journey is essential.”
Union Position on Ongoing Dispute
RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey stated that the union will continue its dispute until a satisfactory agreement is reached with the employer. This ongoing industrial action follows unresolved issues related to productivity negotiations involving train conductors represented by the RMT.
