Hitachi Rail contract secures hundreds of jobs at UK Factory
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer visited the factory to celebrate this significant achievement, which guarantees a stable future for the site and its workforce. The deal will see the production of 70 new rail cars for FirstGroup’s growing open-access business, reinforcing the UK’s position as a hub for high-quality train manufacturing
Supporting local jobs and skills
The Newton Aycliffe facility, which has been a cornerstone of the local economy, will benefit directly from this contract. By securing this order, Hitachi Rail not only safeguards current jobs but also ensures the continuity of a highly skilled manufacturing base in the UK. This is critical for maintaining the country's reputation for engineering excellence in rail transport.
Jim Brewin, chief director of UK & Ireland at Hitachi Rail, highlighted the significance of the deal: “This contract is a positive step forward and just recognition for the hard work and patience of our teams across the Hitachi Rail UK business over recent years. We look forward to once again delivering award-winning British-built trains.”
Delivering growth and sustainability
The contract will provide FirstGroup with a uniform fleet of class 80X Hitachi trains, designed to offer flexibility and reliability for passengers. The trains will serve routes including the recently announced Carmarthen-London service and existing Hull Trains and Lumo operations on the East Coast Mainline. Delivery is expected to begin in late 2027, with the trains maintained at Hitachi facilities across the country.
The agreement also includes an option for FirstGroup to invest an additional £500 million in 13 more five-car trains, depending on the success of its open-access applications. These potential expansions include new Lumo services connecting London with Rochdale, Paignton, and expanded routes to Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Sheffield.
Graham Sutherland, CEO of FirstGroup, emphasized the broader economic benefits: “The new trains, to be manufactured in County Durham by Hitachi, will support UK manufacturing and offer customers more choice as they consider affordable, environmentally friendly travel. Successful open-access services can provide new connections, support local businesses and suppliers, secure jobs, and drive future economic growth.”
Strengthening the UK rail industry
The deal represents a significant boost for the UK rail industry, with investment led by Angel Trains. Malcolm Brown, CEO of Angel Trains, praised the project’s impact: “This is a major milestone for the UK rail industry. In less than three months, we have delivered £250 million of investment that will secure crucial manufacturing jobs and breathe new life into local economies.”
The Newton Aycliffe factory’s success also highlights the importance of private-sector investment and collaboration with local authorities. Northeast Mayor Kim McGuinness and other MPs played a pivotal role in securing this deal, advocating for the benefits it would bring to the region.
Source: Press releases | Rail Company News & Information | Hitachi Rail | Hitachi Rail