A MULTI-MILLION pound investment is set to create up to 200 jobs in Eastleigh.

£50 million is to be pumped into an upgrade for South Western Railway (SWR), the region’s new rail operator.

An enhancement programme has been announced by SWR after they signed contracts with Siemens to refurbish its fleet of 172 Class 444 and 450 Desiro trains.

The project, which begins next month, will be undertaken at Eastleigh Works, creating up to 200 jobs and bringing more investment to the area.

The refurbishment work comes as the operator, which took over the region’s rail franchise in August, looks to boost peak seats at London Waterloo by 30 percent by December 2020.

Eastleigh MP Mims Davies said: “I am absolutely delighted to hear of these new jobs in the area. It’s been a difficult week on trains for many commuters in my constituency – our infrastructure needs are very great what with our growing and thriving local economy and community – and so I welcome all investment to the area – as will Eastleigh commuters and all those who regularly use this key railway service.”

New seat upholstery, renovated toilets and new charging sockets will be some of the work carried out in Eastleigh over the next 12 months for the service that runs through Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and Greater London.

The announcement comes as part of SWR’s £1.2 billion investment plans to transform the customer experience.

Mark Miller, chair of the planning and transport committee at Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “SWR’s announcement is another excellent show of faith in Eastleigh’s railway heritage and current centre of excellent workspace, staff and skills.”

The news comes weeks after the rail firm announced 40 new jobs in Eastleigh to refurbish 18 incoming Class 442 trains.

Engineering director Neil Drury said: “This significant investment in our fleet of trains will see a change for our customers, and investment in local facilities and suppliers.”