Passengers using Nottingham’s tram network face repeated service disruptions through the Christmas period after the GMB Union announced 25 additional strike days between October 22 and December 31, 2026. The industrial action involves drivers, ticketing staff, control staff, engineers, cleaners, and office workers at Nottingham Express Transit (NET) amid a prolonged dispute over pay and working conditions.
The planned walkouts cover four days in October, eight in November, and 13 in December, including critical dates such as Christmas Eve, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Eve. These dates coincide with the peak Christmas shopping season and major city events, including the popular Winter Wonderland, which opens on November 12.
Background of the Pay Dispute
The industrial action stems from a dispute lasting nearly a year. Workers and union representatives have negotiated with NET management since January. Previously, the GMB Union accepted a two-year pay deal in 2024 that promised an 8.5% pay uplift, but current talks have stalled.
Sarah Turner, managing director of NET, described the notice of fresh strike action as “incredibly disappointing.” Management previously proposed a final offer featuring a 3.3% pay increase, a 7% increase for the lowest-paid roles, and further improvements for night workers. Union members rejected this proposal.
“Our members have been trying to resolve this dispute for almost a year. These workers have children and families of their own. Strike action is the last thing they want, especially this close to Christmas.” — Colin Whyatt, GMB Organiser
Full Schedule of Confirmed Strike Dates
The GMB Union outlined a comprehensive schedule of walkouts spanning the final quarter of the year. Commuters and holiday shoppers should note the following affected dates:
- October: 22, 23, 30, and 31
- November: 2, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28, and 29
- December: 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 24, 26, 27, and 31
Impact on Nottingham Travel and City Events
The timing of the strikes coincides with the busiest periods of the year for Nottingham city centre. Previous walkouts caused significant disruptions during the historic Goose Fair. Union officials note that the upcoming dates will directly impact Nottinghamshire’s busiest Christmas shopping weeks.
NET warned that the financial consequences of continued industrial action could threaten the long-term future of the tram network. The operator intends to run limited services during strike periods where staffing and safety conditions permit. Passengers traveling through areas with limited alternative bus connections should plan alternative routes well in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Nottingham tram workers striking?
Workers are striking over an ongoing pay and working conditions dispute with Nottingham Express Transit (NET) that has lasted for nearly a year.
When do the December strike dates take place?
December walkouts are scheduled for December 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 24, 26, 27, and 31, covering Christmas Eve, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Eve.
Which staff members are involved in the walkouts?
The dispute involves tram drivers, ticketing staff, control staff, engineers, cleaners, and office workers represented by the GMB Union.
Will any tram services run during the strike days?
NET stated it intends to operate limited services during strike periods where strict safety and staffing conditions permit, though major disruptions are expected.
What pay offer was rejected by the GMB Union?
NET’s final rejected offer included a 3.3% pay increase, a 7% increase for lowest-paid roles, and improvements for night-shift workers.
