CrossCountry Resumes Full Saturday Services in the UK as RMT Strikes Are Suspended, Derby to Scotland Routes Affected

Published on December 4, 2025

Passengers planning to travel with CrossCountry trains on Saturday, December sixth, can expect normal services following the suspension of planned industrial action by the RMT union. The decision brings relief to travelers across the CrossCountry network, ensuring that journeys can proceed as scheduled on Saturdays throughout December.

The reinstatement of regular services comes just as many town and city centres, including Birmingham New Street, are anticipated to experience higher footfall due to Christmas events and seasonal travel. Commuters and leisure travelers alike are advised to anticipate busier-than-usual trains during this festive period.

Adjustments Due to Engineering Works

Although strike action has been suspended, some planned engineering works continue to affect certain routes. On Saturday, December sixth, CrossCountry services between Derby and the North East and Scotland are expected to be extended by up to one hour due to ongoing work in the Chesterfield area. Passengers are advised to review their travel plans and check the status of their journeys before departure to avoid inconvenience.

CrossCountry’s Managing Director, Shiona Rolfe, highlighted that while the aim is to operate the normal timetable, short-notice cancellations may still occur due to the limited time available to reinstate full services. This reflects the operational challenges in balancing engineering work, festive travel demand, and the reinstatement of services after industrial action was suspended.

Background of the Dispute

The industrial action by RMT members had been planned in response to unresolved issues concerning pay, staffing levels, and previously agreed commitments. The union had stated that it repeatedly sought a negotiated settlement over several months, citing failures by CrossCountry to honour agreements on overtime payments, staff resourcing, and wage discrepancies among different staff grades.

RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey emphasized that the core issues underlying the dispute remained unresolved. According to union representatives, proposals from CrossCountry were considered less favourable than prior offers. Members were facing ongoing staffing shortages, unfair pay outcomes, and commitments that had not been fulfilled, which led to the decision to take strike action initially.

Suspension of Strike Action

The suspension of industrial action in December allows passengers to plan journeys with confidence, particularly during the busy festive period. This decision ensures that individuals traveling for shopping, leisure, or family commitments will not be affected by strike-related disruptions.

Although the strike has been suspended, the situation underscores the importance of continuous dialogue between the company and its employees to address long-standing concerns. CrossCountry’s management remains committed to delivering reliable services and accommodating the operational needs of both staff and travelers during periods of high demand.

Implications for Travel and Commuting

The suspension of strikes is expected to benefit town and city centres across the CrossCountry network. Cities such as Birmingham, Derby, and other major hubs are likely to experience increased activity as shoppers and visitors take advantage of regular train services during December. The continuation of engineering works and Christmas events may still require adjustments to individual journeys, but overall, passengers can expect a smoother travel experience than would have been possible under strike conditions.

The extended services between Derby and the North East and Scotland demonstrate CrossCountry’s proactive approach in managing operational constraints while minimizing disruption for travelers. Passengers are encouraged to plan ahead, monitor service updates, and allow extra time for journeys during peak periods.

The Broader Context of Industrial Relations

The CrossCountry-RMT dispute reflects broader challenges in the railway industry concerning staffing levels, wage parity, and fulfillment of previously agreed commitments. While the suspension of the strike provides immediate relief for travelers, it also highlights the ongoing need for constructive negotiations between employers and staff unions.

Maintaining a balance between operational efficiency, employee satisfaction, and passenger experience remains a central concern for rail operators. The ability to respond swiftly to industrial action, reinstate services, and communicate effectively with passengers demonstrates the importance of proactive management and contingency planning within the rail network.

Moving Forward

As CrossCountry resumes normal Saturday services throughout December, passengers can expect reliable travel across the network. The combination of festive travel demand, ongoing engineering work, and prior industrial action makes it essential for travelers to stay informed and check journeys before departure.

The suspension of strike action marks a temporary resolution in a longer-term dialogue between CrossCountry and the RMT union. Ensuring that both operational requirements and employee concerns are addressed will remain a priority for the company, with the objective of preventing future disruptions and maintaining confidence in the railway system.

Passengers are encouraged to remain aware of updates and plan their travel accordingly, particularly as December continues to bring high passenger volumes, festive events, and the potential for further schedule adjustments due to engineering works.