London Underground drivers belonging to the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) have announced a series of 24-hour strikes that could disrupt travel across the capital between March and May 2026.
The dispute centres on proposals by Transport for London (TfL) to introduce a condensed four-day working week for drivers.
According to the union, members rejected the proposed working pattern and have raised concerns about longer shifts and potential fatigue. TfL says the change would be voluntary and currently applies only to drivers on the London Underground Bakerloo line.
The strike dates announced by the RMT are:
The dispute centres on proposals by Transport for London (TfL) to introduce a condensed four-day working week for drivers.
According to the union, members rejected the proposed working pattern and have raised concerns about longer shifts and potential fatigue. TfL says the change would be voluntary and currently applies only to drivers on the London Underground Bakerloo line.
The strike dates announced by the RMT are:
- 24–25 March
- 26–27 March
- 21–22 April
- 23–24 April
- 19–20 May
- 21–22 May
Earlier this year, major rail works also disrupted commuter travel in central London when the Charing Cross–Waterloo East rail link was temporarily closed for track replacement works. That project highlighted how infrastructure maintenance and industrial action can both affect daily travel across the capital’s construction corridors. For further context see: Charing Cross and Waterloo East to Close for 22 Days as Major Track Replacement Works Begin
Each strike is scheduled to run from 12:00 to 11:59 the following day, potentially causing significant disruption across the Underground network.
For construction workers travelling to sites across London, previous strike action has led to heavier demand on alternative routes such as the Elizabeth line, buses and cycling infrastructure.
Transport authorities have warned the action could affect businesses and commuters across the capital, while union leaders say strike dates could still be called off if a negotiated agreement is reached.
Workers travelling to site on the affected days are advised to check TfL travel updates and allow additional time for journeys.
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Expert Verification & Authorship: Mihai Chelmus
Founder, London Construction Magazine | Construction Testing & Investigation Specialist |
