Strike at Wakefield's National Coal Mining Museum extended again
Around 40 workers at the landmark have been on strike since the summer
Last updated 30th Sep 2025
Strike action at Wakefield's National Coal Mining Museum has been extended for a further four weeks, with little sign of a resolution in a pay dispute.
Around 40 workers at the landmark have been out since the summer, with this latest announcement meaning landmark has been ended until November 9.
The latest announcement comes after Wakefield Council voted last week to withhold funding from the attraction - until the dispute is resolved.
UNISON Yorkshire and Humberside regional organiser Rianne Hooley said: “Staff don’t want to be standing on a picket line for months on end, but until the museum and its chief executive get back round the table with an acceptable offer, they’ve no other option.
“Local councillors are losing faith in the chief executive who’s shown no interest in returning to talks.
“A slap-dash land train was put on during summer holidays while staff were striking, and now plans are being made for Christmas. If she genuinely intended to resolve the dispute, that wouldn’t be necessary.”
Part of a statement from the National Coal Mining Museum reads:
"The Charity’s Trustees are very grateful for the continued support of visitors to our free-to-enter Museum and sincerely regret any inconvenience caused by the current industrial action by UNISON members."
"We are disappointed by UNISON’s decision to extend strike action to Thursday, 9 November, but fully respect the right of employees to take lawful and peaceful industrial action.
"The majority of our staff continue to work as normal, supported by our dedicated volunteers, and the Museum remains open with a full programme of activities.
"However, due to the strike, underground tours are temporarily unavailable. We are working hard and offering alternative experiences and rescheduled visits for families, schools, and groups.
"The Museum is committed to fair and ethical pay. We are proud to be a Living Wage employer and all staff are paid above the Living Wage.
"Despite challenging economic environment nationally, the Trustees approved an above-inflation pay increase of 5% for all employees this year, following an above inflation increase last year. This equates to a 14% rise over two years for many staff, including Museum Guides."