Work underway on job-boosting £100m rail equipment factory
Industrial giant Siemens has started work on its £100m rail equipment manufacturing plant in Wiltshire which will employ around 800 people.
Siemens Mobility says the innovation hub in Chippenham will “shape the future of rail technology in the UK”.
Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy joined members of Siemens Mobility’s leadership team, Chippenham MP Sarah Gibson, past employees with multi-generational ties to the company dating back to the 1900s, and members of the local community to celebrate the occasion.
Set to open in 2026, the facility will support the development and production of the next generation of conventional, digital rail signalling and control system for both the UK and international markets.
Rob Morris, joint CEO and managing director for rail infrastructure and software UKI said: “Breaking ground on our new Chippenham facility marks a significant milestone for Siemens Mobility and the wider UK rail industry.
“This investment reinforces our commitment to driving innovation in rail technology and to transform rail travel and transport for passengers and freight across the UK. It was particularly special to welcome past employees and local school children, who represent both our proud heritage and the future of our industry.”
Lord Hendy said: “This £100m investment will bring a huge amount of opportunity with it. Current and future rail projects will benefit from better signalling systems, modernising our infrastructure and meaning better services for millions of passengers.
“More than 800 people will have a job at this site, giving people the opportunity to build a life here in Chippenham and have a career in the railway industry – which I can say from experience is very rewarding. I look forward to seeing this investment create jobs, boost business, and bolster Wiltshire’s potential.”
Nick McQuaid, regional director of main contractor Bowmer + Kirkland, added: “Bowmer + Kirkland are delighted to be chosen as Siemens Mobility’s construction partner to deliver this state-of-the-art facility in Chippenham. We are also really pleased to continue our relationship with Siemens and bring our vast experience in the delivery of high-quality buildings and our expertise in sustainable construction methods to this project.”
The facility, located at Southpoint Business Park, will be built to BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standards, incorporating sustainable features such as energy-efficient production areas and eco-friendly office spaces.
Siemens Mobility has also committed to enhancing biodiversity, with plans to increase green spaces, plant native species, and create new wildlife habitats.
