2 minute read
Talgo’s new UK train factory a step closer
Spanish train manufacturer Talgo is set to establish a UK manufacturing base in Longannet, Fife, after it signed a framework agreement with Scottish Enterprise and Transport Scotland.
The agreement is part of arrangements to ensure that Talgo UK will be ready to deliver on contracts that it is currently bidding for, and future bids, should the company be successful.
The framework agreement outlines each party’s commitment to ensuring that the proposed multi-million-pound factory at Longannet is prepared and delivered to agreed times and specifications. This will ensure that Talgo will meet contractual deliverables for the contracts that are being evaluated and proposed.
Talgo has signed a jointly-agreed framework to establish a UK manufacturing base in Longannet, Fife / Picture: Talgo
An innovation hub is also planned in Chesterfield. This will act as a focal point for Talgo UK’s research and development, bringing together networks of engineering excellence, and creating new opportunities throughout Britain.
Carlos de Palacio y Oriel, Talgo’s President, said: “We are committed to Scotland in our bid process. Today’s milestone marks a new phase in an excellent relationship with team Scotland. Now let’s get on with securing orders that will bring more jobs and ‘true manufacturing’ of rolling stock back to Scotland.”
Paul Lewis, executive director at Scottish Enterprise, added:“This framework agreement is another significant milestone in our work with Talgo, to achieve its ambition of establishing a world-class high value manufacturing facility at Longannet.
“Scottish Enterprise and our partners are incredibly excited by Talgo’s plans for Longannet, which would deliver 1,000 direct jobs and a host of supply chain opportunities for companies in Scotland.”
Talgo is a leading specialised rolling stock engineering company mainly focused on designing, manufacturing and servicing technologically differentiated, fast, lightweight trains. It operates in more than 44 countries, with a permanent industrial presence in North America, Europe and Asia.
Talgo UK will be ready to deliver on contracts that it is currently bidding for, and future bids, should the company be successful / Picture: Talgo