Lucchini Unipart Rail (LUR) earier this week unveiled its latest investment in UK rail infrastructure with the official opening of a ‘state of the art’ wheelset repair facility at Trafford Park, Manchester. The 63,000ft
2 site marks a significant step in the company’s strategy to expand its industrial footprint in Greater Manchester and reinforce its long-term commitment to the UK rail sector.
The new facility was formally opened by Riccardo Pasinetti, commercial director of Lucchini RS Group and LUR Board Member, who revealed a commemorative plaque during a ceremony attended by customers, shareholders, and representatives from the Department for Transport, Greater Manchester Combined Authority, and MIDAS. Mr Pasinetti said: “This is more than just the opening of a new facility, it represents our commitment to continued investment in the UK rail industry, the strong partnership between Lucchini RS and Unipart, and the future growth of LUR.”
The Trafford Park site consolidates LUR’s light wheelset repair, component overhaul, and warehouse operations, bringing them closer to its existing head office and manufacturing plant. Just a short distance from its 118,000ft
2 wheel and axle machining and wheelset overhaul facility, the new location enhances operational efficiency and coordination. The refurbished site is equipped with advanced machinery and processes that will enable LUR to ramp up its monthly wheelset capacity to 800 units, a vital capability for supporting both passenger and freight rail operators across the UK.
Phil Chilton, managing director of LUR, said: “This opening marks a significant step in our journey. With this new facility now fully operational, we are better placed than ever to serve our customers with innovative solutions meeting our customers’ requirements. It is a proud moment that celebrates both our heritage and our future.”
Delivering sustainable growthHe continued: “As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of our joint venture, we are grateful to our partners, stakeholders, and employees whose support and dedication have helped us reach this milestone. This facility demonstrates our long-term commitment to manufacturing in the UK, to innovation, and to delivering sustainable growth.”
The event drew strong regional support, with local leaders highlighting the strategic importance of the investment. Joe Manning, managing director of MIDAS, Manchester’s Inward Investment Agency, said: “This investment by LUR is a fantastic endorsement of Greater Manchester’s strengths in advanced manufacturing and rail engineering. Trafford Park has a long industrial heritage, and LUR’s expansion not only maintains high-quality jobs and innovation in the area, but also contributes to our ambitions for a greener, more connected transport infrastructure. We are proud to have supported LUR in making this important expansion.”
Councillor Tom Ross, leader of Trafford Council, added: “We are delighted to see this major development for LUR in Trafford Park – a prime location with a longstanding reputation as a home to cutting-edge industry. The opening of the facility aligns with the Council's priority for a thriving economy in Trafford. This advanced level of support for the UK rail industry will help to advance green travel, and address climate change, way beyond our borough.”
The new Manchester site replaces LUR’s previous light wheelset repair facility in Chadderton and complements its nearby gearbox service facility. Meanwhile, the company is also progressing with the expansion of a bogie service facility in Doncaster, which will double its capacity.