Siemens Mobility has announced a ground breaking £100 million investment in a state-of-the-art rail infrastructure manufacturing, digital engineering, and research & development (R&D) facility in Chippenham. This investment underscores the company’s dedication to innovation, sustainability, and excellence, aligning with their “to build in Britain with Britain built in” campaign.
The new facility, replacing the existing factory in 2026, will be a cornerstone for Siemens‘ future plans in rail technology. It will serve as a hub for building the next generation of conventional and digital rail signalling and control systems. The transition, including the transfer of all 800 local staff, will be seamless with no disruptions to production.
The new Chippenham site, located at SouthPoint Business Park, will prioritise sustainability. The office will be built to the highest BREEAM “Excellent” standard, and the production and warehouse areas will comply with strict sustainability criteria across various categories. This commitment promotes environmentally and socially responsible structures.
The factory will be equipped with the latest production technologies, while the offices will foster collaboration and innovation for the UK’s railway sector. The modern and welcoming space will feature open areas for collaboration, meeting spaces, improved facilities, relaxation areas, and advanced technology. The site design aims to blend with the surroundings and will undergo an ecological assessment to achieve a 10% net increase in biodiversity through native plant and wildlife habitat creation.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt said: “This new commitment from Siemens is a big boost for Britain’s world-class manufacturing sector and shows our plan for the UK to be the best place to invest and grow a business is working. This digital technology will improve the safety, reliability and connectivity of our railways and drive sustainable opportunities in higher-paid jobs and exports – as part of our plan to grow our economy.”
Rob Morris, Joint CEO of Siemens Mobility in the UK & Ireland said: “This £100 million investment is a strong commitment to Chippenham and our country. Siemens Mobility’s Chippenham site, along with our 30 sites across the country, has been transforming rail travel and transport in Britain – and it will continue to do so with cloud-based rail technology connecting the real and the digital worlds, digitalising rail. We are very excited to soon start construction of one of the most sophisticated rail factories, digital engineering and R&D sites in the UK, supporting local jobs and skills for the future. There’s a piece of Britain in everything we build.”
Photo Credit: Siemans