Bank Holiday weekend travel plans for thousands are set to be derailed as train drivers on the CrossCountry network have announced a massive 48-hour walkout. The strike, orchestrated by the ASLEF union, promises widespread chaos across the British rail system.
The industrial action is scheduled to commence at 00:01 on Saturday, May 25th, and will continue until 23:59 on Sunday, May 26th. This timing strategically targets one of the busiest travel weekends of the year, maximising the impact on both leisure and essential journeys.
Complete Shutdown Expected on CrossCountry Routes
CrossCountry has issued a stark warning to its customers: "We will not be able to run any services during the strike action." This complete suspension will sever vital connections across the nation, affecting a network that stretches from Aberdeen and Edinburgh in the north to Plymouth and Penzance in the south west, and across to Cardiff and Stansted Airport.
Passengers attempting to travel on the days immediately following the strike should also brace for significant disruption. Services on Monday, May 27th are expected to start much later than usual as the company works to reposition its trains and crew.
The Heart of the Dispute: Pay and Conditions
The strike is the latest escalation in a long-running national dispute between ASLEF and the 14 train operating companies controlled by the UK government and the Department for Transport. Mick Whelan, ASLEF's general secretary, has been vocal in his criticism of the lack of progress in negotiations.
This industrial action is not an isolated event. It coincides with a separate overtime ban across multiple rail companies from Monday, May 20th, to Saturday, May 25th. This ban is likely to cause pre-emptive cancellations and reduced services throughout the preceding week, compounding the travel misery for commuters and travellers alike.
What This Means For Your Travel Plans
If you were planning to travel by CrossCountry train over the late May Bank Holiday weekend, you must now make alternative arrangements. The advice from the rail industry is clear:
- Avoid travel on CrossCountry services on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th of May.
- Expect severe disruption and very limited services on Monday 27th.
- Check your entire journey with other operators, as connecting services will be extremely busy.
- Consider alternative modes of transport if possible.
Passengers with advance tickets for the strike days will be eligible for a full refund. Those who must travel are urged to check the National Rail Enquiries website for the very latest information as the situation develops.
