Train maker announces new jobs as factory expands

The multimillion-pound investment at Alstom's Crewe Works site in Cheshire has more than doubled capacity, bosses say

More than 100 new jobs will be created after a train-making firm upgraded its facilities to overhaul and repair parts for rolling stock, bosses say.

Alstom has opened a new area for refurbishing heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) units, which control a train's air temperature, humidity and quality.

The multimillion-pound investment at the Crewe Works site in Cheshire has more than doubled capacity from 16 units per week to 35.

It is projected to reach 50 per week in January, after the facility is expanded further.

The company said 70 new skilled roles had been created to operate the facility and this would increase to 110 in the new year.

Staff were currently overhauling HVAC units for Class 334, Class 375, Class 377, Class 387 and Class 390 trains, with work on Class 222 and Class 378 trains following in 2026.

Alstom bosses say 110 new jobs will be created, as they upgrade facilities to refurbish train parts

"This expansion not only future-proofs our operations, but also enables us to better serve customers across the country with enhanced capacity and capability," said Steve Harvey, services director at Alstom.

"Crewe has played a pivotal role in Britain's rail history and this latest development will ensure it remains at the heart of train maintenance in the UK."

Originally opened by the Grand Junction Railway in 1843 to manufacture steam locomotives, Crewe Works was instrumental in the development of the town.

Crewe Works was first opened by the Grand Junction Railway in 1843 to manufacture steam locomotives

Along with the new HVAC area, the works today are also home to Alstom's UK Centre of Excellence for bogie, wheel and traction motor overhaul.

This includes bogies – which house a train's wheel sets – for HS2 rolling stock, which will be made by Alstom in Crewe.

It marks the first time in almost two decades that these have been manufactured in the UK, the firm said.

The factory upgrade also includes a refurbished office space that complements the works' industrial heritage, it added.

The new HVAC area and offices were officially opened on 28 October.