A leading supplier of critical components, locomotives, services, signalling and logistics systems and services to the rail industry is cutting up to 450 jobs at its Doncaster site.
The Yorkshire site has developed a particular expertise in the life extension, overhaul, maintenance and refurbishment of railway rolling stock.
The Doncaster works has a long and proud history in the construction and maintenance of trains – the works being the birthplace of famous steam locomotives such as the Flying Scotsman and the world steam speed record holder Mallard.
In a statement, Wabtec says the proposal is to focus the site on the projects that are best suited for its operational strengths and position the facility for long-term success.
The statement says: “The transit rail industry in the United Kingdom is changing, as rail operators are updating their fleets with new rolling stock rather than refurbishing existing trains.
“In 2019, Wabtec’s Doncaster site completed most of its refurbishment projects and has a strategy in place to fulfil the remaining commitments. Given these realities, Wabtec is proposing to realign the site to focus on projects best suited for its operational strengths and better position the facility for long-term success.
“Decisions like this are never easy, but it will improve the site’s cost competitiveness and offer customers the best value. The proposed realignment includes a gradual workforce reduction of up to 450 employees from the third quarter of 2020 to the first quarter of 2021.
“The Company will enter a 45-day consultation period with the trade union and employee representatives to discuss the proposal and improved work practices.
“Wabtec is focused on meeting customer commitments and providing impacted employees with resources and benefits needing during this transition.”
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