Chesterfield takes a step closer to landing 1,000 manufacturing jobs

Chesterfield has been named as one of two locations still in the running for a new UK factory planned by Spanish train manufacturer Talgo.

If the borough’s bid is successful the former Hartington Colliery site, between Staveley and Barrow Hill, would become home to a factory which would create 1,000 high quality jobs.

In early October, the town found out it was in the final six destinations for the Talgo factory.

The manufacturing site would also create an estimated 4,000 jobs in the supply chain for the region, as well as apprenticeship, training and educational opportunities.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “The announcement by Talgo means we are getting ever closer to achieving this once in a generation opportunity for the people of Chesterfield.

“A new factory on this scale would provide a massive boost to our economy particularly in terms of job opportunities for local people.

“Talgo’s commitment to a ‘true manufacturing’ approach would also generate openings for local businesses to supply components as part of the supply chain, which would help create more jobs and increase the positive impact on our economy.

“Chesterfield Borough Council will now set about working with its partners to submit further information to Talgo over the next week and we will continue to make the strongest possible case for Talgo’s UK factory to be located in Chesterfield borough.”

If successful, building work would start in July 2020, ready for the train factory to open in December 2021. A new £9 million innovation and training centre is also planned to be built at Barrow Hill Engine Shed for Talgo to use and showcase its technologies.