Westcombe Engineering
Based in Peterborough since 1970, Westcombe Engineering; owned by Peterborough City Council, is proud to be a specialist in the design and manufacture of precision engineered parts. From initial design and concept through to prototype development and full-scale production, our highly skilled team works closely with clients to deliver practical, cost-effective engineering solutions.
We have several key customers, one of which is global giant Perkins Engines, a diesel engine manufacturer that we supply and deliver precision machined parts and assemblies to, both locally and globally as a Tier 1 Supplier. Our machined components are supplied to a wide range of industries including Aerospace, Agricultural, Construction, Electronics, Food, Marine, Medical, Fitness Equipment and Pharmaceutical.
Supporting the community
Westcombe Engineering has been a pioneer, remaining true to its unique founding principle – to provide employment and development opportunities for disabled people who face barriers in securing gainful employment. The company was set up in 1970 by the late Royce W. Westcombe, who had a vision of enabling disabled men and women into work, and a dedication to equip disabled workers with the skills and knowledge that would allow them to pursue careers in the wider economy. John Westcombe, the son of our late founder talks about his father’s vision.
Our skilled workforce
Even the most cursory glance at our modernised workshop layout, and the sight of our highly capable engineers and workshop staff producing highly complex, machined components on a daily basis, reveals the strengths of our talented disabled staff. Our history and continued success in this area is a genuine source of pride, and we are always happy to showcase the positives of our unique approach. In partnership with local colleges, our internships and work experience programme provide a gateway to ongoing careers in the engineering industry.
Social enterprise and a thriving business
Westcombe Engineering is a social enterprise, which means that any money we make is reinvested back into the business and the local economy. By investing this way, we are able to improve life chances and improve society. In short, when we profit, our community profits. We are fully committed to our social responsibility in providing permanent employment, along with short and medium term work experience opportunities for disabled people. Our partnerships with City College Peterborough, Peterborough Regional College and the charity, Shaw Trust, enables Westcombe Engineering to provide a gateway for these opportunities.
Today, Westcombe Engineering is thriving. Continued investment in modern plant, equipment, employee training and development, alongside a rigorous focus on operational efficiency and productivity has seen a significant improvement in key business drivers such as quality, cost and delivery. This has allowed the company to diversify beyond its traditional automotive market to win new contracts in other industry sectors.