DB Cargo, one of the UK’s leading rail freight operators, is enjoying a double celebration.

The firm has further improved its production capabilities with the opening of a new wheel lathe facility in Toton. Meanwhile, DB has also been awarded key accreditation from the Railway Industry Supplier Approval Scheme (RISAS) to produce powered wheel sets at its workshop in Stoke.

Both developments mean that DB Cargo UK can now service and produce wagon and powered wheel sets for third parties, while also servicing its own fleet.

The new wheel lathe at Toton will also mean that the firm can re-profile wheels on rail wagons without the need for them being removed, which will ensure an even quicker and more efficient service. The Stoke workshop is operated by Axiom Rail, a sister company of DB Cargo UK.

The RISAS status qualifies DB Cargo UK to manufacture powered wheel-sets for part of its fleet, including its Class 66 locomotives, in addition to regular wagon wheel-sets.

Andrew Byrne, head of maintenance at DB Cargo UK, said: “These developments build on DB Cargo UK’s ability to service its own fleet and also add to the services it can offer to external companies.

“We’ve created world-class facilities that demonstrate DB Cargo UK’s dedication to advancing technology, as well as introducing new innovations and developments.”

The news comes after DB Cargo announced up to 900 job cuts last month as the firm was reportedly struggling to cope with a declining freight sector.

In a statement, the company said it was consulting on proposals including cutting 893 jobs, downsizing its locomotive and wagon fleet, and revising the number and locations of operational sites.

Recent figures from the ORR show freight moved is down by 8.4% from last year and freight lifted is down 15.3%, which it largely attributed to a decline in coal production.