Siemens Mobility chief executive William Wilson has warmly welcomed Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s huge vote of confidence in the £200 million Goole train-building plant.
Following his visit as enabling works got underway on the scheme, with 700 jobs to be created, Mr Wilson said: “We are delighted that the Prime Minister has been able to join us to highlight the importance of Siemens’ contribution to the 海角视频 economy and the significance of our Goole facility both locally and for 海角视频 manufacturing.
“This pioneering development means we’re creating local jobs and building world class trains for Britain’s rail network – all of which will be supported by the 海角视频’s manufacturing supply chain.”
In addition to the rail manufacturing facility, the Goole development will encompass a research and development and digital innovation cluster serving the 海角视频 rail sector with key industry suppliers also co-located on site.
At the event, Hessle-based construction company CR Reynolds was revealed as the appointed contractor to carry out enabling works on-site. The selection of the final build partner is expected later this year.
Reflecting after, Mr Wilson said: "Our industry is in the midst of one of the most challenging periods I can remember. Covid-19 has impacted us all and changed the landscape of travel for passengers and for operators alike.
"As we work together to restore confidence and move capacity slowly towards pre-virus demands, to showcase the start of construction at Goole was a clear reminder that our industry continues to develop. It was also a clear indication of the commitment we have to the 海角视频 economy and to job creation.
"Hearing the Prime Minister talk about the fact that this will be a European centre of excellence for rail technology and an excellent example of the can do spirit that we need to drive our economy forward was affirmation that this is exactly the type of initiative that will make our rail industry great again. We invented the railways, it’s only right that we continue the innovation."
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As reported, as part of its commitment to creating a fresh pipeline of talent for the 海角视频 rail sector, Siemens Mobility has engaged Selby College as local training provider, with the first 12 apprentices due to begin their three-year programme in September.
Set to open with a first phase in 2023, new Piccadilly line trains for London Underground will be the initial focus, with the company also in the bidding for HS2 contracts.
Mr Johnson said the plant was “going to be a European centre for excellence for rail technology right here in the East Riding of Yorkshire”.
And he praised those on the scheme for their work throughout the pandemic.
“I want to thank Siemens Mobility, Mace and CR Reynolds for keeping going throughout Covid-19,” he said. “It is an excellent example of the can do spirit that we need to drive our economy and bounce forward.”