Siemens Mobility’s Rail Village in Goole, East Yorkshire, recently hosted Councillor Rob Waltham MBE and Ros Jones CBE, Mayor of Doncaster, for a tour of the facility. The visit showcased Siemens Mobility’s investment of up to £240 million in the region, which is expected to create up to 1,000 direct jobs and around 1,700 across the supply chain. The facility is producing new Piccadilly line trains for London and has plans to produce new Bakerloo line trains and battery bi-mode trains, which could transform rail travel in the UK.
During the tour, the visitors learned about the site’s commitment to developing a diverse and skilled workforce, with over 40 apprentices currently developing careers in manufacturing and engineering. The facility also promotes gender diversity in STEM through initiatives like Women in Manufacturing events and has various employee resource groups. Mayor Jones expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating that it is a vital contributor to delivering jobs, growth, and prosperity for Doncaster.
Siemens Mobility’s plan to assemble future battery bi-mode train orders for the UK was also discussed during the visit. This technology has the potential to eliminate the need for new diesel passenger trains, offering a solution for the UK’s extensive unelectrified routes. The battery bi-mode trains could save Britain £3.5 billion over 35 years and reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 12 million tonnes. The Goole facility is already assembling the next generation of Piccadilly line trains and is ready to deliver new Bakerloo line trains, which are crucial for modernizing London travel and securing skilled jobs in East Yorkshire.
The Rail Village is a significant contributor to local employment in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, offering jobs, apprenticeships, and training for local people. The facility comprises a train manufacturing facility, components facility, logistics and distribution centre, and a brand-new bogie assembly and service centre currently under construction. The visit underscored the shared goal of boosting regional prosperity and transforming rail travel and transport. Niraj Sondhi, Commercial Director at Siemens Mobility, expressed his pleasure in hosting the visitors and highlighted the facility’s role in driving skilled jobs and economic growth across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.