Two sites in Derby have made the final shortlist for a new Great British Railways (GBR) HQ.
Becketwell, a city centre brownfield site set for redevelopment, and Midland House, an existing railway building opposite Derby station, have now been deemed the most viable of the five-strong long-list.
Derby was named as the home of GBR’s HQ in March 2023, after a competitive bid process in which its strong rail heritage, existing industry presence and central national location were highlighted. It has also been home to a GBR Transition Team office in John Ellis House since 2024.
GBR will bring together the work of 17 different organisations into a single organisation responsible for operating, maintaining and improving our railways. Until then, Network Rail and the DfT Operator (DFTO) – home to nationalised train companies – are acting as ‘twin engines’ to drive the transition.
The final decision on HQ location – expected before the end of 2026 – will 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.”
While Derby will host the new HQ, GBR will be closer to the communities it serves across Great Britain, with a new framework giving local leaders a clear voice in how the railway is run in their areas. This will include devolved ministers in Scotland and Wales taking an enhanced role.
Jeremy Westlake, chief executive for Network Rail, commented: “This is an important step forward on our journey to GBR, and we are excited to be working with longstanding partners in Derby, as we come together to create a centre of excellence which will play a key role in the future of the entire railway industry.
“Having lived and worked in Derby for 18 years, it is an excellent location for a national transport organisation like Great British Railways, with all its rail heritage and strong industrial base.”
Image credit: Network Rail
