RMT Announces Windrush Line Strikes Over Below-Inflation Pay Offer

Rail workers on the Windrush line have announced a series of strikes in February after rejecting what they describe as an unacceptable pay offer from their employer, Cleshar CS Ltd. The action involves RMT members, including signalling and telecommunications staff whose roles are essential to the safe operation of the railway.

The dispute centres on a proposed 1.5 per cent pay rise, which the union says falls well short of the current rate of RPI inflation. Workers have also raised concerns over ongoing issues with overtime and annual leave payments, alongside terms and conditions they say are worse than those in place under the previous contractor, Carillion.

Strike action is scheduled to take place over three separate 24-hour periods, on Thursday 26 February, Thursday 26 March and Thursday 23 April 2026. The walkouts are expected to affect services, as signalling and telecoms staff carry out safety-critical duties without which trains cannot operate.

The union has pointed to the company’s reliance on overtime as evidence of chronic understaffing and the central role played by the workforce. According to the RMT, this reliance further underlines the importance of reaching a fair settlement.

Financially, Cleshar CS Ltd reported profits of £991,915 in its most recent financial year and distributed more than £533,000 in dividends, figures the union says demonstrate the company’s ability to improve its offer.

RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey said:

“Our members have been insulted with such a derisory offer and have no choice but to take strike action. This company is highly profitable and can afford a decent offer for these safety-critical workers. Strike action would be disruptive and our members do not want to inconvenience passengers. But the company has a duty to pay our people properly and we will continue our campaign until we reach a negotiated settlement."

Image: RMT