13.10.15
Siemens and Claire Perry talk future plans in Chippenham visit
Siemens Rail Automation’s staff at its Chippenham facility welcomed rail minister Claire Perry MP last week to discuss future projects and plans for the site.
The 11,000sqm facility has been Siemens’s main UK rail base since 2013 and is home to ongoing research and manufacturing operations. Following its creation it was responsible for the hangar testing of signalling equipment for the Great Northern Great Eastern (GNGE) programme, for example.
Siemens has also recently been involved in the redevelopment of Reading station and the opening of the Borders Railway, as well as with ongoing work with Crossrail and Thameslink.
Paul Copeland, the company’s managing director, commented on the minister’s visit: “It was a great opportunity to showcase our research and development, manufacturing and delivery capabilities at Chippenham and to discuss a number of our current and future projects and plans.
“We also spoke about our continued commitment to the recruitment and development of graduates and apprentices, and how we intend to further grow this vital resource, which is so crucial to the long-term future of the rail industry.”
Around 700 staff are based at the location, a considerable slice of the 1,650 staff pool working in the company’s rail automation division across the UK.
Perry added: “Siemens’ success in the UK is proof that our record investment in the rail network is not only transforming the passenger experience, it is also helping to boost business and create jobs and opportunity across the country.”