Tube strike by RMT members expected to cause ‘severe disruption’ for London travellers

Commuters are being warned to expect major disruption across London Undergound as workers prepare to begin a strike expected to last until Friday.

Industrial action by RMT members will start on Sunday evening and last until Friday morning.

Transport for London says the mass walkout, from January 7 until January 12, will mean ‘little or no service’ across the London Underground network if the prolonged strike goes ahead.

Travellers planning to use the tube on Sunday, January 7 are also being warned to complete their journeys by 5.30pm at the latest, in readiness for the walkout while on Friday, services will start later than normal but a good service is expected from midday.

Passengers needing to use public transport this week will still be able to travel on London Overground, the Elizabeth line, DLR and tram services but these may be subject to last minute changes and services may not stop at some stations shared with London Underground.

London buses will also operate as normal, but these are expected to be extremely busy.

Walking or cycling – advises Transport for London – may be quicker for some journeys across the capital with travellers advised to use route planner apps and tools in order to find the best options on foot.

Santander Cycles will be available to rent across the capital for those wishing to make their journey on two-wheels and transport officials say teams will be ensuring bikes are distributed at key locations according to the demand generated by the tube strike.

Glynn Barton, TfL’s Chief Operating Officer, added: “We are disappointed that RMT is planning strike action in response to our offer of a five per cent pay increase. We have been clear throughout our productive discussions with our trade unions that this offer is the most we can afford while ensuring that we can operate safely, reliably and sustainably. We encourage the RMT to engage with us to avoid disruption for Londoners.

“We would like to advise anyone travelling during the strike days to check before they travel.”