Siemens Mobility to invest in the new factory in Chippenham

Siemens Mobility is investing 115 million EUR to establish a cutting-edge rail infrastructure manufacturing, digital engineering and research & development (R&D) centre in Chippenham, east of Bristol. This investment highlights the commitment to innovation, sustainability, excellence, and meeting the growing demand for rail infrastructure in Britain and worldwide.

The new facility, set to replace the existing factory in 2026, 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, including the transfer of all local staff, totaling approximately 800, will not cause any interruption in production.

The new 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. The interior will be modelled to account for the ‘new normal’ with many open and collaboration and meeting spaces, better facilities, relaxation areas and improved technology. The site, designed to blend in with its surroundings, will undergo an ecological assessment aiming for a 10% net increase in biodiversity through the planting of native plants and the creation of wildlife habitats.

Siemens Mobility's Chippenham factory has been a hub of innovation for over 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 factory in Chippenham has a rich history, dating back to its establishment by signaling contractor Evans O’Donnell in 1897. Over the years, it underwent various transitions, including being acquired by the Westinghouse Brake & Signaling Company, before becoming part of Siemens global network of rail infrastructure production facilities in 2013. Siemens Mobility has been at the forefront of rail technology for over 175 years.