South Western Railway warn of 'severe disruption' during strikes
Industrial action is planned for three days later this month
Ahead of three days of strikes by up to 50,000 railway staff across the country later this month, South Western Railway warn us services will be 'significantly affected'.
RMT members working for Network Rail and 13 operators, including SWR and Great Western Railway, are due to walk out on Tuesday 21st June, Thursday 23rd June and Saturday 25th June.
SWR have already warned that 'significant parts of the network will be unavailable for travel on those dates'.
They've also said that where services can run, they'll be limited with fewer trains than normal.
Claire Mann, Managing Director of South Western Railway, said:
“I understand that the announcement of upcoming industrial action will worry many of our customers, particularly against the backdrop of significant cost of living pressures.
“We are carefully finalising contingency plans, but I’m afraid this action will mean that many customers will be unable to travel by rail.
“If customers can change their date of travel, or make alternative arrangements, I urge them to begin making those arrangements as soon as possible.
“I appreciate how challenging this may be and would like to thank customers for their patience as the rail industry responds to this unprecedented industrial action.”
We're told SWR is working with local hospitals, schools, airports and businesses around their network to support them.
The finalised timetable is expected to be published soon, and will be available on the South Western Railway website.