20 May Vivarail creates 30 new jobs based here at Spectrum Business Park
Vivarail, the manufacturer of eco-friendly passenger trains, has created 30 new jobs faster than expected here at its site in Spectrum Business Park.
The manufacturer set up an additional site at Spectrum Business Park, Seaham, back in 2017 to tap into the North East’s pool of skilled rail industry workers. The move was supported by Business Durham, the economic development organisation for County Durham.
Initially the workforce based in Seaham was expected the to grow to 30 people over three years, but the availability of experienced staff in the area has enabled them to reach that milestone in just over a year since the new site became operational.
Vivarail was formed in 2013 to create state-of-the-art commuter trains. Its new Class 230 train, which is fitted with cutting-edge technology and offers lower fuel consumption and low emissions, is built from high-quality, lightweight aluminium bodyshells with Bombardier Flex 1000 bogies from existing early-retired stock. The company’s first passenger trains went into service in April 2019 on the Marston Vale line between Bedford and Bletchley, operated by West Midlands Trains, with air conditioning systems developed at Seaham.
Spectrum Business Park was selected as the location to assemble power units, using batteries or drawing on electricity from a third line or overhead cable, with the option of a diesel drive for a hybrid train.
However, management were so impressed with the calibre of recruits in the North East that they have now made it their main Recruitment and Development centre for the business.
Founder and Chief Executive, Adrian Shooter, said: “We are building the trains of the future. Moving to County Durham and having the flexibility to add another unit has allowed us to expand our business more quickly than planned. It gives us access to a pool of talented workers, including engineers, technicians and fitters, and the benefit of good transport links between our two locations.”
Caroline Taukulis, Business Engagement Team Manager at Business Durham, added: “Vivarail’s arrival has been a welcome addition to what is an increasingly important industry in the region. Their investment is great for jobs and the local economy and highlights the facilities and skills we have to offer.”
To find out more visit: https://businessnewsnortheast.co.uk/eco-friendly-train-manufacturer-creates-30-new-jobs-in-seaham/
No Comments