LNER Weekend Strikes Cancelled After Agreement Made

• Planned train strikes and industrial action stopped after resolution reached.

Publish on The Courier Online on 18th September 2024.

The planned strikes by train drivers at London North Eastern Railway (LNER) have been called off after a resolution was reached between union representatives and company officials.

Approximately 450 drivers intended to strike every weekend until mid-November due to what the ASLEF union claimed were a breach of agreements.

The ASLEF -The Trade Union for Train Drivers- and LNER company officials spoke and found a resolution.

On August 29, Aslef told the BBC a 'resolution' had been reached and confirmed drivers would 'now report for duty as normal'.

'LNER and ASLEF have reached a positive agreement, meaning industrial action has been stopped for the foreseeable future.'

LNER, which is a publicly owned company operates services to and from London King's Cross station, passing through major cities like Newcastle, York, and Durham, connecting its customers down the East Coast Main Line.

LNER stated it was working to 'strengthen' the weekend timetables and were preparing for fewer services to run that weekend. The company announced the reduced timetable would make trains 'extremely busy' and passengers were advised to check their bookings before traveling.

Mick Whelan, the general secretary of ASLEF, expressed satisfaction at resolving the issue and emphasised the union's commitment to a fully-staffed railway that does not depend on excessive driver overtime.

An LNER spokesperson described the discussions as 'constructive' and explained the company was 'pleased that the strikes had been called off'. Transport Secretary Louise Haigh also welcomed the agreement, noting that it had been achieved 'at no extra cost to the taxpayer.'

As for students returning to University by train, we advise you to check your bookings in advance of your travel date.