Wiltshire Council Approves £100m Siemens Mobility Digital Engineering Facility

Wiltshire Council has granted approval for the construction of a new £100m Siemens Mobility digital engineering facility. This new centre, dedicated to rail equipment manufacturing, research, and development, is slated for construction at Southpoint Business Park, located near Chippenham. The establishment of this new centre, initially announced in March, will encompass offices, production facilities, laboratories, warehousing, and a test-track bed designed for the static testing of signalling infrastructure equipment. Siemens Mobility, presently situated at Langley Park within the town, stated that this relocation is intended to “further cement Siemens’ connection with Chippenham for years to come”. The Local Democracy Reporting Service reported that Siemens Mobility had adjusted its initial proposals after engaging in consultations with the town council and various stakeholders. These revisions addressed concerns raised, such as implementing a reduced speed limit close to the new location to encourage cycling. Chippenham Town Council expressed support for the updated plans. Furthermore, the most recent Wiltshire Council case officer report indicated that, from an economic standpoint, the factory would be “welcome”. The report specified: “This site is the UK’s sole dedicated signalling and control facility and results in highly skilled, well-paid jobs that brings benefits to the local economy, along with giving other local businesses the opportunity to supply goods and services.” Siemens’ application disclosed that a study conducted on its existing Langley Park site concluded that the location was no longer “economically viable”. The study further indicated: “The study determined future expansion plans would not be possible; or that Siemens’ sustainability aspirations cannot be met.” The existing Siemens factory in Chippenham, which has been instrumental in significant projects like the Elizabeth Line and the Birmingham New Street Station redevelopment, was established in 1897 by signalling contractor Evans O’Donnell. The Westinghouse Brake and Signalling Company subsequently acquired the site, and it integrated into the Siemens network in 2013. The anticipated opening of the new facility is by 2026.