A NEW era is dawning for a major Hampshire employer that just a few years ago seemed destined to be consigned to history.

With business booming, Eastleigh Works has plans to create 400 jobs, launch a new business park and even have new trains built on site.

The railway renaissance will delight many people who remember the Campbell Road site in its heyday when it employed more than 6,000 workers.

It was the railway that gave birth to Eastleigh and many residents still remember anecdotes and characters from yesteryear who worked on the site.

Sons followed their fathers into the industry and all the sports teams and clubs were set up around the railwaymen.

The bosses say the new Eastleigh Works rising from the ashes is unique with all elements of the rail industry working closely, top-of-the-range facilities and equipment, comprehensive transport links and a skilled local workforce.

The massive rail revival is being championed by firms Knights Rail Services and St Modwen’s which is trying to revitalise the formerly derelict site into a thriving transport hub.

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