Alstom Crewe Works: HVAC, HS2, & UK Rail Capacity Boost

Introduction

Alstom has inaugurated a new HVAC overhaul facility and refurbished offices at Crewe Works, increasing train servicing capacity from 16 to 35 units per week, with a target of 50 units by January 2026. The expansion has already created 70 skilled roles, with numbers expected to rise to around 110 next year.

Train Component Overhaul and Repair Facility

Alstom has opened a new train component overhaul and repair facility at Crewe Works. The facility includes a state-of-the-art area for refurbishing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units. The new facility allows for expert inspection, regassing, and brazing, as well as replacement of worn components. Crewe Works has also installed bespoke test cells that replicate onboard conditions to ensure optimal performance.

HVAC Unit Capacity and Train Types Serviced

Before the facility opened, Crewe processed about 16 HVAC units weekly. The new setup has doubled this to 35, with a target of 50 units by January 2026. The expansion has already created 70 skilled roles, with numbers expected to rise to around 110 next year. Current work focuses on Class 334, 375, 377, 387 and 390 trains, with Class 222 and 378 units scheduled for 2026.

Crewe Works History and Current Operations

Crewe Works, originally opened by the Grand Junction Railway in 1843 to manufacture steam locomotives, was central to the town’s growth. Today it houses Alstom’s UK Centre of Excellence for Bogie, Wheel and Traction Motor Overhaul, which has serviced over 20,000 bogies in the past ten years. The facility will also produce bogies for High Speed Two (HS2) rolling stock, the first time in nearly two decades that these have been manufactured in the UK.

Office Refurbishment and Opening Ceremony

The office refurbishment was delivered in partnership with Woodhouse. The space reflects the site’s industrial heritage, with exposed steel structures and a new mezzanine level housing modern meeting rooms. The ground floor features an open-plan office, additional meeting spaces, a welcoming reception, breakout areas and teapoints designed to encourage collaboration.

The HVAC facility and offices were officially opened on 28 October by Rob Whyte, Managing Director UK and Ireland; Steve Harvey, Services Director UK and Ireland; and Steve Hadfield, Project Director at Alstom. Local dignitaries at the ceremony included Councillor Stuart Mackay, Deputy Mayor of Crewe; Councillor Kevin Murray, Crewe Town Council; and Paul Colman, Chief Executive at South and North Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Conclusion

The investment is expected to strengthen Crewe Works’ position as a leading train maintenance and innovation hub in the UK while providing new opportunities for local employment and skills development.

Company Summary

Alstom: A global leader in smart and sustainable mobility.

Grand Junction Railway: Opened Crewe Works in 1843.

Woodhouse: Partnered with Alstom for the office refurbishment.

Technology

HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units regulate air temperature, humidity, and quality on trains by drawing in air, heating or cooling it, and recirculating it while managing ventilation and filtration.