Two locations in Derby have been shortlisted as the preferred sites for the future headquarters of Great British Railways (GBR).
Becketwell, a city centre regeneration site, and Midland House, an existing railway building opposite Derby station, have emerged as the final contenders from an initial longlist of five.
Derby was confirmed as the home of GBR’s headquarters in March 2023 following a competitive national bid, with its rail heritage, central location and established industry base cited as key strengths. Since 2024, the city has also hosted a GBR Transition Team office at John Ellis House.
A final decision on the headquarters location is expected before the end of 2026. The selection will be based on criteria including economic and regeneration impact, value for money, and environmental and social considerations.
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.”
GBR will bring together responsibilities currently spread across multiple organisations into a single body overseeing the operation, maintenance and development of Britain’s rail network. Until its formal establishment, Network Rail and the Department for Transport Operator (DFTO) are leading the transition.
Jeremy Westlake, Chief Executive of Network Rail, said the move marked “an important step forward” in creating a new national organisation, while DFTO Chief Executive Alex Hynes described the shortlist as “a positive step” as momentum builds towards rail reform.
Once established, GBR will operate nationally while working more closely with regional partners, with new governance arrangements expected to give local leaders a stronger voice in how the railway is run.
