Where would the Talgo factory be in the UK?

Any location regarding Talgo’s UK factory is still being discussed.

So far, the company has one employee in this country - Key Account Manager for the UK and Ireland Jon Veitch, who was appointed earlier this month ( RAIL 835).

Speaking exclusively to RAIL on September 13, Veitch said that the company had begun talking to regional authorities and the Government regarding regions interested in a factory being built in that area. He added that it was not exclusive to England, and that Scotland and Wales were also possibilities.

Through his previous roles at Hitachi and Intercity Express Programme Director for East Coast, Veitch has been busy arranging meetings with ministers in England, Scotland and Wales. The company hosted UK Ambassador Simon Medley at its Madrid factory on September 15.

Additionally, rolling stock leasing companies have shown an interest in talking to Talgo to see what it can offer.

Upcoming franchises also interest the company, said Veitch. He named the East Midlands deal as one such franchise that the company is looking at for a bi-mode product, with others also being investigated. Veitch is a former Fleet Manager for East Midlands Trains.

Talgo is also interested in entering the refurbishment market, likely using its UK facility if and when it is built, according to Veitch.