Two locations in Derby have made the final shortlist for the new Great British Railways (GBR) HQ.
The sites, Becketwell, a city centre brownfield site, and Midland House, an existing railway building opposite Derby station, have been deemed ‘most viable’ out of a list of five potential locations.
Great British Railways Branding
© Department for Transport
The city was announced as the home of GBR’s HQ in March 2023 following a competitive bidding process in which its rail heritage, existing industry presence and central national location were all highlighted. It has also served as home to a GBR Transition Team office in John Ellis House, which was first established in 2024.
Until GBR brings together the work of 17 different organisations into one single entity; Network Rail and the DfT Operator (DFTO) are acting together to drive the transition, with the final decision on the HQ’s location set to be made based on a range of factors, including regeneration and economic value, value for money, and environmental and social impact.
Rail Minister, Lord Hendy said:
Derby will be the heart of Great British Railways and with these shortlisted locations, we’re one step closer to bringing highly-skilled jobs to a city already brimming with rail industry history and talent.
We’re working with local partners and teams around the country to design an organisation that will put passengers front and centre, driving jobs, growth and innovation in the Midlands and beyond.
Whilst a decision is expected to be made regarding the HQ by the end of 2026, additional sites will be located closer to the communities it will serve within Great Britain.