TfL warns 3 London Underground lines will be extra busy as Elizabeth line strike dates confirmed
Significant disruption is expected across the Elizabeth line over the next two weeks as a result of planned strike action from the ASLEF trade union. Passengers have been asked to check before they travel on the affected dates, with Transport for London (TfL) warning three London Underground lines in particular are likely to be even busier than usual.
The Elizabeth line strikes come following a dispute over pay from train drivers and are planned to take place this Thursday (February 27) and then on Saturday (March 1), the following Saturday (March 8) and Monday (March 10). There will be no service between Abbey Wood and Reading as well as Heathrow on February 27 and March 1, with a significantly reduced service between Liverpool Street and Shenfield from 7am to 6pm only.
Services on these dates will not be calling at Maryland, Manor Park, Forest Gate and Goodmayes stations. Full service information for the March 8 and March 10 strikes will be confirmed at a later date.
Mike Bagshaw, managing director for MTR Elizabeth line, which operates the cross-London line, said: “Following intensive talks with Aslef to resolve this dispute and avoid disruptive strike action for our customers, we have put forward an enhanced offer. This builds upon the original offer of a 4.5 per cent pay increase and enhanced terms and conditions, which would have maintained some of the highest salaries in the industry."
He added: "In the meantime, we have worked closely with Transport for London to implement a robust contingency plan, ensuring customers are informed of alternative travel options during the strike."
TfL warning to Tube passengers on lines to avoid
TfL has confirmed that no other services will be impacted by the strikes but Tube passengers are being warned the Jubilee, Central and District lines will likely be busier as a result. There will also be planned works on other lines including the DLR on March 1 and March 8. Passengers travelling to or from Heathrow Airport have been advised to use the Piccadilly line during the strikes.
Howard Smith, TfL’s Director of the Elizabeth line, said: "Talks are continuing, and we urge ASLEF to suspend any industrial action whilst these are taking place. We encourage ASLEF and MTR Elizabeth line to continue talking to try and resolve this dispute and avoid impacting our customers with strike action."
He said: "If the strike action does go ahead, customers are urged to check before they travel, allow extra time for their journeys, and check the TfL website or the TfL Go app for the latest travel information."
The transport authority is reportedly working to ensure customers are aware strike action is taking place and to ensure any disruption caused is minimised. The latest information on the planned strikes is available on the TfL website.
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