Alstom Derby Event: UK Rail Innovations, Sustainable Transport

Derby’s Litchurch Lane Works Opens Doors for Landmark Railway Celebration

For the first time in nearly half a century, Alstom’s Litchurch Lane Works in Derby, a cornerstone of British rail manufacturing, has thrown open its doors to the public. This unprecedented event, dubbed “The Greatest Gathering,” is a sold-out, three-day charity spectacular, attracting nearly 40,000 attendees. The event, a major highlight of the UK’s Railway 200 celebrations, commemorates the bicentenary of the Stockton and Darlington Railway. The gathering, which took place on Alstom’s 90-acre site, the UK’s only train factory that designs, builds, and tests trains for both domestic and export markets, showcases over 140 railway vehicles. With exhibits ranging from the 200-year-old Locomotion No. 1 to the latest rolling stock like the Derby-built Class 720 Aventra, the event aims to educate and inspire. The focus of this article will be to delve into the event’s highlights, technical significance, and its implications for the future of rail in the UK and beyond.

A Showcase of Railway Heritage and Innovation

The Greatest Gathering provides a unique opportunity to witness the evolution of rail technology. The event offers a remarkable juxtaposition of historical significance and contemporary engineering. Key attractions include a steam locomotive cavalcade featuring iconic engines like the Flying Scotsman, alongside high-speed exhibits such as the Class 390 Pendolino Progress and Eurostar power car 3999. This showcases the advancements in propulsion, materials, and design over two centuries of railway development. The site’s 1.4 km test track allows attendees passenger rides on steam, diesel, and electric trains, including the Class 345 Aventra, providing an immersive experience that illustrates the practical application of modern railway technology.

A Hub for Education and Industry Engagement

Beyond the rolling stock displays, The Greatest Gathering incorporates a strong educational element. The Mobility Theatre hosted a daily programme of talks, film screenings, and Q&A sessions, including the UK premiere of “An Unlikely Fandom: The Impact of Thomas the Tank Engine.” A dedicated STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Hub aimed to promote careers in engineering. Furthermore, a Model Railway Village, featuring layouts by Pete Waterman and leading model manufacturers, offered another avenue for engaging with railway technology in a hands-on manner. The Railway 200 exhibition train, curated with the National Railway Museum, provides historical context and perspective on the industry’s evolution. The event also provided street food, music, and fairground attractions.

Governmental and International Recognition

The event has garnered significant support from key industry figures and governmental bodies. Lord Peter Hendy, UK Rail Minister, praised the scale and ambition of the event, hailing it as the largest exhibition of railway equipment ever staged in the UK. French Ambassador to the UK, Hélène Duchêne, highlighted Alstom’s contribution to UK transport projects, underscoring how bilateral investment drives growth, innovation, and improved connections. Duchêne also noted the convergence of UK and French priorities in sustainable rail transport, specifically the enhancement of Cross-Channel rail traffic. This demonstrates the international significance of the event and the UK’s commitment to fostering partnerships to strengthen railway infrastructure and innovation.

Charitable Aims and Legacy

The event isn’t solely focused on celebrating rail history and technology; it also serves a vital charitable purpose. All profits from The Greatest Gathering are being donated to five charity partners: Alzheimer’s Research UK, Railway Benefit Fund, Railway Children, Railway Mission, and Transport Benevolent Fund CIO, along with railway heritage organisations. This underscores the railway industry’s commitment to giving back to the community and supporting vital causes. The choice of charities reflects the diverse needs of the railway community and broader society.

Conclusion

“The Greatest Gathering” represents a remarkable achievement, successfully blending nostalgia, education, and charitable fundraising. The event showcases the UK’s rich railway heritage while simultaneously highlighting the technological advancements shaping the future of rail transport. The inclusion of modern rolling stock, STEM initiatives, and the participation of key industry and governmental figures signal a commitment to innovation and investment in the sector. The success of this event highlights the importance of preserving the past while embracing the future of railways, especially with the formation of Great British Railways in 2022, with Derby as the chosen home. This event not only inspires rail enthusiasts but also highlights the essential role that the railway industry continues to play in society. Looking ahead, the lessons learned from this event could inform future industry events, fostering greater collaboration and engagement with the public while driving further innovation in the railway sector. The emphasis on sustainable rail travel, as highlighted by international partnerships, suggests a pathway toward greener and more efficient transportation networks.

Company Summary: Alstom

Alstom is a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility. The company designs and supplies complete railway systems, including trains, infrastructure, signaling, and digital mobility solutions. Alstom’s Litchurch Lane Works in Derby, UK, has been a crucial part of the company’s operations, producing trains for both domestic and export markets. With a strong focus on innovation, Alstom has positioned itself to drive the future of railway transport, contributing to sustainable mobility through its advanced technology and extensive experience.