London is braced for a major wave of disruption this May as Underground workers have voted to walk out in a significant dispute over working conditions and safety.
The planned industrial action, organised by the RMT union, is set to bring large parts of the world's oldest metro system to a grinding halt, causing misery for millions of commuters, tourists, and businesses across the capital.
When Are The Tube Strikes Happening?
The walkouts are not confined to a single day but will unfold over a series of dates, maximising their impact:
- Monday, 6th May: Strike action begins for LU workers.
- Tuesday, 7th May: Strike action continues.
- Wednesday, 8th May: ASLEF union train drivers commence their own strike.
This coordinated approach is expected to cause a near-total shutdown on strike days, with severe knock-on effects on the mornings following each action.
Which London Underground Lines Will Be Affected?
Travel chaos will be widespread. The following tube lines are expected to see little to no service during the strike periods:
- Central Line
- Jubilee Line
- Northern Line
- Piccadilly Line
- Victoria Line
- Waterloo & City Line
Other lines, including the Bakerloo, District, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines, are also anticipated to run a severely reduced service, if they run at all. Passengers are strongly advised to seek alternative methods of transport.
Why Are The Strikes Happening?
At the heart of the dispute is a clash over new working arrangements and safety protocols. The RMT union has declared that the changes are "simply unworkable" and pose a "grave risk" to both staff and passenger safety. Union bosses have accused Transport for London (TfL) of attempting to force through the changes without meaningful consultation.
This industrial action follows a recent ballot where RMT members overwhelmingly voted in favour of striking, demonstrating a firm stance against the proposed terms.
What Does TfL Say?
Transport for London has expressed disappointment at the decision to strike. A spokesperson urged the union to continue discussions rather than disrupt the city, stating, "We encourage the RMT to engage with us to find a resolution and avoid the need for strike action which will cause significant disruption to Londoners."
With both sides appearing entrenched in their positions, the prospect of a last-minute resolution seems increasingly unlikely, setting the stage for a week of unparalleled travel disruption in the capital.
