Alstom has opened a new train component overhaul and repair facility inside its Crewe Works through an investment of more than GBP 2 million (EUR 2.3 million) in new technology and offices at Crewe Works, in Cheshire, UK.
Alongside a state-of-the-art area for refurbishing heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) units, Alstom has also developed a suite of new offices as part of a multi-million pound investment for the future of the Cheshire town’s historic site.
An HVAC unit controls a train’s air temperature, humidity and quality. These systems work by drawing in air, heating or cooling it, and then circulating it back into a carriage, while also managing ventilation and filtration. Alstom’s newly-installed equipment in Crewe enables trains’ HVAC units to be expertly inspected before they are regassed and brazed.
As part of a full overhaul and repair, operatives change out refrigerant, and worn parts are replaced to restore systems to optimal performance and extend their lifespan. Additionally, Crewe’s bespoke test cells enable climatic chamber examinations, as they replicate various onboard conditions the systems experience in passenger service.
Prior to the new facility opening, Crewe Works was able to process around 16 HVAC units per week. This has now doubled to 35 and will reach around 50 by January when the HVAC Area is expanded further to help meet demand. Seventy new skilled roles have already been created to operate the facility, which will rise to around 110 in the New Year.
Operatives are currently overhauling HVAC units on Class 334, Class 375, Class 377, Class 387 and Class 390 trains, with work on Class 222 and Class 378 trains following in 2026.
Along with the new HVAC Area, Crewe Works is today home to Alstom’s UK Centre of Excellence for Bogie, Wheel and Traction Motor Overhaul, overhauling over 20,000 bogies during the past ten years for the UK rail market. Looking ahead, the bogies – which house a train’s wheel sets – for the High Speed Two (HS2) rolling stock will be made by Alstom at their Crewe facility.
Meanwhile, Alstom has partnered with Woodhouse to deliver a transformative refurbishment of their General Office space within the Crewe Works site. Woodhouse developed a progressive design for the 20,000 sq ft space that has enabled the office area to adapt and support Alstom’s growth plans for the site.
The design credits the building’s industrial heritage, stripping it back to its former steam locomotive manufacturing and repair facility by exposing the striking steel structure. A new mezzanine level has been installed, housing a suite of modern meeting rooms, while the ground floor features a spacious open-plan office, additional meeting spaces and a welcoming reception area designed to enhance the visitor experience. The refurbishment also includes a vibrant breakout and teapoint area, encouraging collaboration and connection amongst staff.
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