CAF Rail UK has formally opened its new wheelset and bogie overhaul and refurbishment facility, strengthening the support it provides for train operators and rolling stock owners across the UK as the number of passenger trains manufactured by CAF continues to increase.
Based in Lowry Park, Manchester, the CAF Overhaul Facility represents an investment by CAF of £10 million; it will carry out maintenance and overhaul work on a range of major items, including wheelsets and bogies, with the scope of work due to expand shortly to include final drives and other key components. The new facility will provide CAF with Increased overhaul capacity, ensuring improved turnaround times, and enhancing fleet reliability whilst reducing asset downtime.
Initially the facility will provide work for around 30 employees, many recruited locally, however, this number is expected to double as work on the site ramps up. It will also serve as a training centre for new CAF employees.
The Overhaul Facility has been designed to manage the entire demand from CAF projects in the UK; working on a two-shift basis, the team in Manchester will have the capacity to overhaul up to 300 bogie frames and 1200 wheelsets every year.
It will be supported by CAF’s Central Stores Facility in Stockport through a just-in-time supply model, ensuring parts and materials are delivered as required to maintain efficient operations and minimise inventory holding at the new Lowry Park site.
This investment demonstrates CAF Spain’s continued investment in the UK market and its long-term commitment to supporting Britain’s railway industry through local capability and skilled employment opportunities.
Dave Lowe, Managing Director, CAF Rail Services UK said:
“It is fantastic to see our new Overhaul Facility at Lowry Park completed and ready for operation. This state-of-the-art facility represents a significant investment in our capabilities and will enable us to better support the needs of our clients across the UK rail industry.
“I would like to thank everyone involved in delivering this project. We are excited to begin operations and look forward to providing first-class overhaul and maintenance services from this outstanding new facility.”
Joe Manning, Managing Director, Invest Manchester said:
‘‘CAF’s latest investment in Greater Manchester is a strong endorsement of the city-region as a leading destination for advanced manufacturing and rail. The decision to open this new overhaul facility in Manchester reflects the strength of our industrial base and access to skilled talent. As global companies like CAF continue to invest and grow here, they are helping to drive innovation and reinforce Greater Manchester’s position as a key hub for rail and advanced manufacturing in the UK.’’
Cllr. Gavin White, Executive Member – Housing and Development, Manchester City Council said:
“The opening of CAF’s new overhaul facility at Lowry Park is a welcome addition to Manchester’s industrial landscape and an important investment in the infrastructure that supports the UK’s rail network. In creating skilled jobs and new opportunities for our residents, investment like this plays an important role in supporting the city’s growth and can deliver real benefit to Manchester’s economy.”
Image credits: Tony Miles
