Coventry MP explores rail innovation at MTC
Posted: 14 January 2025 | Elizabeth Jordan - Global Railway Review | No comments yet
Mary Creagh CBE MP recently visited the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in her Coventry East constituency as part of the Railway Industry Association’s (RIA) Rail Fellowship Programme, an initiative which gives senior politicians a better understanding of the work of the UK rail supply chain.
During the visit, the Coventry MP saw a wide range of technologies in the workshops and member wall as well as exploring new R&D in automated robotics, electrification and lasers. She met several apprentices being trained at the facility which is one aspect of MTC’s capabilities in supporting the West Midlands supply chain and regional economy.
Mary Creagh also saw the innovative “Factory in a Box” demonstrator which shows businesses how to grow by adopting smart manufacturing techniques and processes. Additionally, she witnessed MTC’s work in developing a more sustainable approach to manufacturing which supports a circular economy.
The visit also showcased the Rail Fellowship Programme’s goal of facilitating collaboration between industry and policymakers, ensuring the rail supply chain remains innovative, sustainable, and globally competitive.
Mary Creagh CBE MP, “It was impressive seeing first hand the collaborative work being done at MTC. The technological innovations allowing products to move from internal-combustion engines to electrification not only benefits our planet but provides employment, including apprenticeships, throughout the West Midlands, including my constituency of Coventry East.”
“The MTC’s location in Ansty builds on the West Midlands’ proud tradition of innovation and advanced manufacturing in the automotive and railway supply chains. It was good to see how local companies are building on our proud engineering heritage to create a twenty-first century transport system.”
Dr Graham Hoare, MTC’s CEO said “We were pleased to welcome Mary Creagh MP to the MTC at our Coventry HQ and were very encouraged to hear the Minister’s interest in our work. The MTC prides itself on the impact it makes, both locally and nationally, whether through the essential commercialisation of research, the demonstration of new technologies or the development of skills through our growing number of apprentices. We were able to have a number of positive discussions, and I look forward to following these up with Mary in the near future.”
Eli Rees King, Business Engagement Manager at RIA Midlands & Eastern said, “MTC is a hugely impressive showcase of the many innovations which are transforming manufacturing. It’s a reminder of the value of partnerships and how cross-sector collaboration can deliver a better railway in the future.”