Train managers on Avanti West Coast will take strike action on Saturday, October 22 in a row over the imposition of rosters.

The dispute is not part of the ongoing national RMT dispute that has caused widespread disruption across the network but a separate issue specifically with Avanti.

Last week, Avanti West Coast has had its contract for the West Coast Mainline extended for six months but was ordered to 'drastically improve services'.

The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) said it has gained assurances from Avanti that it will return to providing timetables at least six weeks in advance of travel after a summer of disrupted timetables and late notice cancellations.

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The operator was second bottom in the performance table for late trains in 2020-21, was bottom in 2021-22 and was the most complained about train company with over 50,000 complaints lodged.

"Avanti are one of the worst operators we have ever tried to negotiate with” RMT general secretary, Mick Lynch said.

"They have treated our members appallingly and this strike action is the culmination of months of neglect and a strong response to the arrogance bosses have shown.”

"Avanti should never have been given any extension to their franchise contract for all the chaos they have caused passengers.”

"And their contempt of their staff is part and parcel of their disastrous approach."

Staffing rosters were introduced earlier in the year and further discussions are underway about December’s rosters.

An Avanti West Coast spokesperson said: “We’re disappointed by the RMT's decision to go on strike in the coming weeks which we think is premature.”

“This is completely unfair on our customers who will again bear the brunt of more unnecessary disruption to their plans.”

“We would urge the RMT to reconsider this course of action and work with us to resolve this dispute.”

 

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