Rail Minister visits Knorr-Bremse Rail HQ

The Minister responsible for rail, Paul Maynard, took time out of his busy schedule to visit the Knorr-Bremse Rail UK Headquarters at Melksham on 2nd March.

The MP was keen to visit the successful UK-based rail company which designs and manufactures state-of-the art technology and rail systems for export around the world. Knorr-Bremse is a global company and employs over 400 people at its Melksham facility.

Knorr-Bremse UK manufactured systems are currently in use on new trains including those in the UK, the Middle-East and China. In the UK the new London Underground trains and the new high speed Hitachi trains soon to enter service are equipped with their systems. Demand for the company’s EP2002 Distributed Brake Control system resulted in record levels of sales in 2016 and is expected to break that record this year.

Paul Maynard toured the Knorr-Bremse Melksham facility where he was shown the technology and met members of the senior management team, many of whom were involved in the design and manufacture of the systems. He also talked with apprentices, who are a vital part in keeping the company competitive in the global market going forward.

Paul Goodhand, Managing Director of Knorr-Bremse Rail UK commented, “It is great that the Minister responsible for Rail has taken the time to come and see us and is interested in UK technology development and manufacturing in the sector. We see the continued investment in, and development of, advanced systems here as essential to continue with our export success.”   

Paul Maynard MP added, “Innovation is vital in our rail industry to bring our aged network up to standard. This will help provide the fast, reliable services passengers want to receive and that government wants to deliver. Companies like Knorr-Bremse are leading the way in bringing new thinking to the industry and as a result are also exporting British designed and built braking systems around the world.”