Siemens opens new rail infrastructure technology and innovation centre in Chippenham
posted on 6th Nov 2026 17:40
On 6 November 2026, Siemens has officially opened its new manufacturing and research facility in Chippenham, marking a 115 million EUR investment in the UK’s rail infrastructure. The opening was attended by UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Secretary of State for Transport Heidi Alexander.
The new site at SouthPoint Business Park serves as a global center of excellence for signaling and control systems, replacing the historic neighboring facility. The transition to the new facility, including the transfer of all 800 local staff, was completed without any interruption in production. This milestone highlights the critical role of advanced digital technology in creating a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable railway.
The new facility marks the next chapter for a historic rail hub that dates back to 1897. Originally established by Evans O’Donnell and later the headquarters of the Westinghouse Brake & Signaling Company, Chippenham has been a global center of excellence for over a century, delivering critical technology for iconic projects like London’s Elizabeth, Victoria, and Central lines. This legacy of innovation is now being carried forward into a world-class, sustainable environment at SouthPoint Business Park.
Built to the BREEAM 'Excellent' standard, the new site features energy-efficient offices and production areas designed to blend with their surroundings, including a 10 % net increase in biodiversity through native planting. This modern, collaborative workspace enables Siemens to scale the production of advanced systems, such as computer-based interlockings and the ETCS, ensuring that Chippenham remains at the heart of the UK’s digital rail revolution.
To celebrate the opening of the new facility, Siemens hosted a hands-on STEM lesson for local pupils, which was broadcast to more than 1,000 children nationwide. The session was delivered by British award-winning children’s presenter Maddie Moate. The event reflects a growing national focus on employers introducing children to the world of work from primary school age onwards. Last year, Siemens UK&I welcomed 326 apprentices, graduates, and interns into the business, and through the National Training Academy for Rail, has trained more than 28,000 people.
Siemens is a cornerstone of the UK’s transport sector, employing approximately 5,000 people nationwide. The opening of the new Chippenham factory and innovation center is part of a wider investment strategy in the United Kingdom, which includes the new 230 million EUR rail village in Goole and a comprehensive network of maintenance depots.
