NOVEMBER LONDON TUBE STRIKES: What’s working and when?
Updated: Nov 2
Transport for London (TfL) has issued a warning to commuters and visitors ahead of planned industrial action that threatens to paralyse the capital’s Underground network in early November.
Members of the RMT and ASLEF Unions are set to strike over pay and conditions, prompting TfL to urge travellers to check journey details before heading out. Talks continue in an attempt to resolve the dispute, but TfL has warned of major service disruptions if no agreement is reached.
The industrial action will see London Underground services severely affected over multiple days, with widespread cancellations and limited operations expected. Here is a breakdown of the anticipated disruptions:
• Sunday 3 November: Services will finish earlier than usual. Travellers are advised to complete their journeys by 17.00, as no service will run after 19.00. Expect stations to close progressively from the afternoon.
• Monday 4 November: The Underground network is expected to operate normally, but TfL advises all travellers to check for updates before making any journey.
• Tuesday 5 November, and Wednesday 6 November: Severe disruption is anticipated. Most lines will not be running, and any services that do operate will likely start later and finish earlier than usual. Travellers should be prepared for reduced service hours and consider alternative travel plans.
• Thursday 7 November: A complete shutdown of the London Underground is expected. No Tube services will be available across the entire network, significantly increasing pressure on other modes of transport, such as buses, the Elizabeth line, and London Overground.
• Friday 8 November: Severe disruption will continue. As on earlier strike days, most lines will not operate, and any services running will begin late and conclude early. Commuters should be ready for extended travel times and potential delays.
• Saturday 9 November: London Underground services are expected to start later than normal, with operations gradually resuming after the strike days. Early morning journeys may still be affected, and delays are likely.
• Tuesday 12 November: The strikes will culminate in another day of severe disruption, with most lines not running. Any limited services operating will once again follow restricted hours, starting later and finishing earlier than usual.
Knock-On Effects Across London’s Transport Network
TfL has stressed that the closure of Tube services will put immense pressure on other transport systems. The Elizabeth line and London Overground will be operational but are expected to see a sharp increase in passenger numbers, potentially necessitating queuing systems to manage the influx. The DLR and London Trams will also continue running, though they may be unable to stop at all stations if Tube closures affect access points.
Buses will run on their usual schedules but will be significantly busier as Londoners look for alternatives. Congestion on the roads is expected to worsen, and drivers should be prepared for delays, especially during peak commuting hours. TfL are advising travellers to use walking and cycling routes where possible to help alleviate pressure on the city’s strained transport system.
Ongoing Negotiations and TfL’s Offer
TfL is actively working to resolve the disputes with RMT and ASLEF union representatives. The latest offer put forward includes a 4.6 per cent average pay increase, designed to reward staff for their contributions and ensure fair pay, particularly benefiting the lowest-paid employees. Additional proposals include increased paternity leave and other workplace benefits. Despite these efforts, the unions remain in negotiations, and no agreement has yet been reached to avert the strikes.
TfL’s Advice for Travellers
With a week of substantial disruption looming, TfL has emphasised the need for thorough travel planning. Commuters are advised to stay updated through tfl.gov.uk/strikes and to be prepared for longer travel times. Those who need to travel should plan ahead, check live service updates before setting out, and consider alternative methods of transport.
For those able to do so, walking or cycling may prove more reliable, especially on days when the Tube is completely shut. TfL continues to encourage passengers to be patient and prepared, as the city braces for an unprecedented impact on daily commutes and journeys.
Claire Mann, TfL's Chief Operating Officer, said: “We are disappointed that the RMT and ASLEF unions have announced strike action, following our recent discussions over pay, terms and conditions. We are continuing to talk with all trade unions to discuss the issues and seek a resolution. Our offer is fair for our people and affordable for London.
“We urge the trade unions to call off this action, accept our offer, and avoid disruption to London. If it goes ahead customers should check before they travel as on some days during the strike there will be little to no service.”
