A DISPUTE over the role of train guards has prompted rail union RMT to announce a new strike ballot for its members at Northern Rail.

The union said it was in dispute with Arriva Rail North, which runs the Northern franchise, and its members will vote on whether to take action.

It comes just weeks after a strike ballot was cancelled after pay talks were resolved but now the union says the company has failed to provide any assurances about the future of guards’ roles.

The RMT is embroiled in a long-running row with Southern Railway and recently announced a ballot of its members on Merseyrail over the same issue.

The RMT general secretary, Mick Cash, said its position on driver-only operation (DOO) was clear.

“We will not agree to any extensions of DOO and will fight to retain the safety-critical role of the guard and to keep a guard on the train,” he said.

An Arriva Rail North spokesman said: “We are in the early stages of developing our modernisation plans to bring customers a better railway, so we believe the RMT is extremely premature in calling a ballot for strikes.

“During our discussions this week we offered commitments to consult fully with our people, customers and key stakeholders. We want to protect jobs and pay as we work together to provide safe, secure and accessible services for our customers. We want to continue talking with the RMT.”