London Tube strikes to cut services for commuters in Barnet
Eight extra days of driver walkouts are set between 26 November 2026 and 25 February 2027, with the RMT warning of fatigue risks and safety concerns.
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The Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union has announced eight further 24‑hour walkouts by London Underground drivers, beginning at noon on 26 November 2026 and ending on 25 February 2027. The dates were listed by BBC London, which also noted that only RMT‑affiliated drivers will strike, representing roughly half of the network’s workforce.
Why the dispute matters for commuters
RMT union announces Tube strikes over four-day week dispute
The union claims Transport for London is trying to worsen conditions for drivers, while another union has accepted the proposal.
The current industrial action centres on a proposal to introduce a voluntary four‑day working week with condensed hours. RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey told BBC London that the scheme would force drivers to give up existing protections and could lead to longer, less predictable shifts. He added that the union fears the plan would increase driver fatigue and compromise safety.
There is nothing voluntary about a scheme that forces drivers to give up existing protections whether they work four days or five.
Eddie Dempsey, RMT general secretary
TfL maintains that participation in the four‑day week would be optional and that drivers could remain on a five‑day schedule if they choose. A TfL spokesperson, as quoted by BBC London, said the company has repeatedly confirmed the voluntary nature of the proposals and apologised for any inconvenience caused by the June strike.
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Evidence from the June 2026 strike
Data released by TfL after the June 2026 walkout showed a 40% reduction in Tube journeys on the strike day, while bus usage increased by 4%. The report also recorded modest rises on the Overground (4%), Elizabeth line (18%) and DLR (7%). Cycling climbed 22% and road traffic grew 10%.
The mayor of London, as reported by BBC London, described the June disruption as having a serious impact on Londoners, businesses and commuters, and urged both parties to resume talks. The RMT has said TfL has not engaged meaningfully on concerns about fatigue and longer shifts.
What residents can do
Barnet commuters are advised to check real‑time service updates on the TfL website and to consider alternative routes, such as buses or cycling, especially on the listed strike dates. The council’s transport team will monitor the situation and share guidance through local channels.
The next formal step is a round of negotiations scheduled for early March 2027, after the final strike on 25 February. Both TfL and the RMT have indicated a willingness to discuss the four‑day week proposal, but no timetable for a settlement has been announced.
Questions this report answers
+When are the upcoming Tube driver strikes scheduled?
Eight 24‑hour strikes are set for 26 Nov, 17 Dec, 19 Dec, 4 Jan, 6 Jan, 17 Feb, 23 Feb and 25 Feb 2027, according to BBC London. They will affect services where RMT drivers work, which is about half the Underground workforce.
+How did the June 2026 strike affect travel patterns?
TfL data showed Tube journeys fell by 40% on the strike day, while bus usage rose 4%. Overground, Elizabeth line and DLR journeys each increased modestly, and cycling grew 22%. These figures illustrate the shift in commuter behaviour during industrial action.
+What is the RMT’s main objection to the proposed four‑day week?
The RMT argues the scheme would lengthen daily shifts, increase driver fatigue and erode existing terms and conditions. Eddie Dempsey said the plan is not truly voluntary and threatens safety, a view echoed by union statements reported by BBC London.
+What should Barnet residents do to prepare for the strikes?
Residents are advised to monitor TfL service updates, plan alternative routes such as buses or cycling, and follow local council communications for guidance. The council will continue to share information as the strike dates approach.
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