Southeastern asks Kent passengers not to travel during RMT strikes
Published: 16:39, 15 June 2022
Updated: 17:16, 15 June 2022
Rail passengers have been advised not to travel on certain days as strike action looms.
Southeastern has advised that most trains in Kent will not be running on three days next week.
The RMT union strike, which takes place on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, June 21, 23 and 25 will see services restricted.
Only around 20% of trains will be running in the county and most routes will be closed completely.
Bosses are also warning commuters to expect "significant morning disruption" on the days immediately after the strikes, when trains will not be able to start until 7am.
Four lines will be operating just two trains an hour, from 7am to 7pm, on the affected days – the Woolwich, Bexleyheath, Sidcup and Ashford high-speed line, which will only be operating from London to Ashford.
The Grove Park line will also be running six trains per hour in the same time frame, but only from London to Orpington.
Anyone requiring assisted travel will be able to book, but they have been warned to expect disrupted services and last-minute cancellations.
Scott Brightwell, Southeastern’s operations and safety director, said: “We want to avoid industrial action, because we know it’ll be really difficult for our customers.
"If these strikes go ahead there’ll be significant disruption to our services between Tuesday and Sunday. The number of train services we’ll be able to run will be extremely limited, and many of our routes will have no trains and most stations will be closed.
"So, we’re advising passengers please do not travel on strike days as we cannot guarantee you will be able to travel.
“We want to make sure you’re fully refunded for not being able to travel. Information on how to claim refunds is available on our website, or you can give us a call.
“I’d like to apologise to customers for the inconvenience and frustration this industrial action will cause.
"We urge the RMT to call off the industrial action, and work with us to find a resolution as we look to rebuild the railway together.”
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Alex Jee