Hundreds of jobs are at risk in Doncaster as Wabtec, a US-owned rail maintenance company, has announced plans to close its Hexthorpe site. The company, which employs approximately 300 workers at its facility, has initiated a consultation period with staff regarding the proposed closure.
The decision follows a “comprehensive review of product lines and cost challenges” at the depot. While no final decision has been made, Wabtec is exploring several options, including relocating operations to another site within the UK or consolidating operations at a nearby location.
Sally Jameson, Member of Parliament for Doncaster Central, expressed concern over the potential closure but emphasized that the local council is actively supporting Wabtec’s leadership in exploring alternative sites within the city. Wabtec’s Doncaster operation is responsible for maintaining and repairing vital rail stock, including carriages and wheels, making the factory a key player in the region’s rail infrastructure.
This news follows a series of setbacks at the site, including voluntary redundancies in 2020. Should the site ultimately close, Wabtec has committed to completing its current projects, with operations at the Doncaster facility expected to continue through 2026. However, the company confirmed that it plans to withdraw from the vehicle maintenance market in the UK, signaling the end of its operations in Doncaster.
Doncaster Mayor Ros Jones, who previously referred to the city as a “national rail hub,” expressed concern over the impact of the closure. The city is home to over 50 rail-related businesses, underscoring its importance as a center for the UK’s rail industry. Wabtec’s proposed shutdown could have a significant impact on the local workforce and the broader rail sector in the region.
The consultation process is set to begin in the coming weeks, with workers awaiting further details on the company’s future plans.
| Doncaster Wabtec | by Foulger Rail Photos from Basingstoke UK, on Wikipedia CC BY-SA 2.0 |
