Past, present and future as Siemens and SWR open Northam to public

Siemens Mobility and South Western Railway are to host a free open day at Northam Traincare Depot on September 28.

Members of the public will be able to learn more about the trains, sit in driver’s cabs, and walk underneath trains in the inspection pit. Bookings can be made at siemens.co.uk/railopenday with all funds raised from donations on the day going to local children’s charity Teddy20.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming the public into one of our train maintenance sites for the ninth year running,” said Siemens Mobility Chief Executive William Wilson.

“This year’s open day has a past, present and future theme, as we celebrate 16 years since our Class 444s and ‘450s’ were first introduced on routes into London Waterloo. It’s an opportunity to showcase the milestones these fleets have reached, as well as tell visitors about our plans for investing in the trains to deliver further benefits to passengers.

“We hope families and children will come away knowing much more about the rail industry, and feeling inspired by the career opportunities it can offer.”  

SWR Managing Director Andy Mellors added: “It’s great to be partnering with Siemens Mobility on this latest open day. It will provide a unique opportunity for those who use our services and the local community to get a real insight into the technology, innovation and expertise that’s involved in running the Class 444s and ‘450s’, which together make up almost half of our entire fleet.”

The event runs from 1000 to 1700, with last entry at 1600. Tickets must be pre-booked and under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. A shuttle bus will run from Southampton Central station from 0930.