Siemens is to invest £100m to build factory in Wiltshire to produce the next generation of rail signalling and control systems for Britain.

It will replace its historic railway signalling and controls industrial complex next to the Great Western main line at Chippenham in Wiltshire.

The new cutting-edge facility as to be built in Chippenham is expected to be operational by 2026, with around 800 skilled manufacturing, research, engineering and reporting roles transitioning to the new site and no interruption in production.

Joint CEO of Siemens Mobility UK & Ireland, Rob Morris, said: “We are very excited to soon start construction of one of the most sophisticated rail factories, digital engineering and R&D sites in the UK, supporting local jobs and skills for the future.”

Siemens’ investment comes on the advent of one of the most significant modernisation programmes in two centuries of Britain’s railways, with digital rail systems set to better connect communities and make it easier for people to access a wider range of job opportunities.

The plans are also expected to be a boost for the local economy in Chippenham and the wider Wiltshire region, with Siemens Mobility working closely with local small and medium enterprises across the supply chain.