This week, C28 toured the historic Plantworks site in Hexthorpe, Doncaster, where they explored the Wabtec facility, moving from the HVAC testing shop to E2—once home to the legendary Flying Scotsman. As they were escorted around the current 22-acre site, the students absorbed the location’s history, learning that at the height of production, the facility spanned a staggering 90 acres. The site has been an integral part of our community for more than 170 years, employing thousands of local people ranging from labourers to master craftspeople, and was even vital to the war effort with Doncaster women becoming ‘Munitionettes’ working long hours in dangerous conditions. With the site sadly closing this year, this may well be the last cohort from XP Trust to visit such an important part of Doncaster’s heritage; considering the historic achievements and listed buildings in this area of Hexthorpe, it was a true privilege to be welcomed into this local slice of industry.
