London’s Underground network is set to grind to a halt next week as a fresh wave of Tube strikes is expected to disrupt all lines. Following last month’s industrial action, another four days of walkouts are planned for next week and mid-June, as members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union continue to dispute the introduction of a four-day work week.
When Are the Next Tube Strikes?
Passengers should prepare for disruption on the following dates:
- Midday on Tuesday, May 19, to midday on Wednesday, May 20
- Midday on Thursday, May 21, to midday on Friday, May 22
- Midday on Tuesday, June 16, to midday on Wednesday, June 17
- Midday on Thursday, June 18, to midday on Friday, June 19
Similar to April’s strike action, London Underground services are expected to be affected from mid-morning until midday the following day, with disruption likely to continue into the evening.
What Services Will Be Affected?
Most major Tube lines will stop running completely, while some lines may continue to run trains, although services will be infrequent and very busy. The Elizabeth line, Docklands Light Railway (DLR), and the Overground will run as normal, but they too are expected to be extremely crowded.
What Were April’s Tube Strikes Like?
The Tube strikes last month saw disruption hit numerous lines across the city, causing crowding at several stations. The majority of London Underground lines were listed as disrupted or suspended, pushing Londoners to find alternative means of transport such as bicycles, ride-hailing services, and walking. On one of the strike days, a simultaneous bus strike caused cancellations and delays on routes 8, N8, 25, N25, 45, 205, and N205. Small businesses around Liverpool Street station reported a drop in income during the first day of the Tube strike.
Can You Use an E-Bike During Strikes?
During April’s four-day strike, the number of people cycling surged, with nearly 4,000 riders recorded on the Embankment by 8:45 am on the third day—a dramatic increase from the average of 252. Forest e-bikes reported a 50% increase in rides during rush hour and a 35% increase in afternoon rides. Lime recorded a 23% increase in trips and a 20% increase in average distance and trip length compared to the previous week. Similar demand for Santander, Lime, and Forest bikes is expected next week. Lime has increased foot patrols and drivers on standby to boost batteries and balance overcrowded bays. Alex Berwin, head of policy at Forest, said all hands are on deck to prepare for an expected spike in demand, especially at stations and commuter hubs.
Why Are the London Underground Strikes Happening?
RMT members are in dispute with Transport for London (TfL) over a condensed four-day work week. Under the plan, which the RMT says is being imposed, drivers would work a full week’s hours in four days. RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey said the plan raises concerns about fatigue, safety, and work-life balance. TfL has stated it will continue to work constructively with trade unions to avoid disruption and address concerns.
