Dorset train stations effectively closed due to strike action
ASLEF members are taking industrial action today (Friday 1st September)
No trains are running in Dorset today (Friday 1st September) as train drivers in the ASLEF union are on strike.
Disruption will be greater than previous industrial action as no South Western Railway trains are running south and west of Basingstoke.
The operator say an 'extremely limited service' will be in operation, as this latest action affects SWR’s main line drivers for the first time.
Previously, ASLEF walkouts were limited to depot drivers, who deal with trains being brought in and out of service.
There'll also be a significantly reduced service available on Saturday 2nd September, as the RMT union is also taking strike action.
There'll still be no services through Dorset, but trains will be running from Southampton Central, if you can get there by other means.
Services will also finish a lot earlier than usual, with the network closed from 7.00pm on Saturday.
South Western Railway's Chief Operating Officer, Stuart Meek, said:
“This is the first time our network has been subject to full strike action by members of the ASLEF Union and, as a result, we are only able to offer an extremely limited service on Friday 1st September.
“If customers must travel on either day, they should check their entire journey before travelling, with other operators also impacted by strike action. We're really sorry for the disruption."