Siemens Mobility is to invest £100m in a new manufacturing and R&D centre in Chippenham, Wiltshire.

It will replace its current rail infrastructure site with a state-of-the-art factory, digital engineering and R&D facility.

The new factory, expected to be operational by 2026, will be strategically positioned to meet the growing demand in rail technology.

Approximately 800 local manufacturing, research, engineering and support staff will transition to the new site.

The new facility will be vital for Siemens Mobility's future projects in rail technology, providing an efficient site to build the next generation of conventional and digital rail signaling and control systems for Britain. 

The transition will not cause any interruption in production.

Karl Blaim, managing director and chief financial officer of Siemens Mobility, said: “This new €115m investment underscores our unwavering commitment to Chippenham and the UK. 

“It builds upon our significant investments in a state-of-the-art Train Manufacturing Facility and Rail Village in Goole, further solidifying our long-term commitment to the advancement of the UK's rail industry.”

Siemens Mobility's new Chippenham site, located south of Langley Park at SouthPoint Business Park, will feature an office built to the highest BREEAM Excellent standard. 

The production and warehouse areas will meet strict sustainability criteria, evaluated across various categories including energy, water, waste, health, well-being, or materials. This promotes structures that are more sustainable and beneficial for society and the environment. 

The factory is being constructed with the latest standards for highly efficient production, while the offices are designed to provide a modern, welcoming work environment to enable better collaboration and innovation for the UK railway. 

Siemens Mobility's Chippenham factory has been a hub of innovation for more than a century, pushing the boundaries of rail technology and making a lasting impact on projects globally. 

Key innovations include digital signaling technology for the Elizabeth, Victoria and Central lines, computer-based interlockings for the East Coast Digital Programme, modular technology for improved connections on the North Wales Coast, development of relays for railway signaling, or being at the forefront of delivering the first centralized traffic control systems in the UK. 

These innovations have resulted in significant industry cost reductions, improved safety, and enhanced efficiency.

The current Siemens Mobility factory in Chippenham has a rich history, dating back to its establishment by signaling contractor Evans O’Donnell in 1897.