In a major announcement today, Derby has been declared the home of the new Great British Railways headquarters.
Beating out the likes of Birmingham, Crewe, Doncaster, Newcastle and York, this significant milestone for Britain’s railways will have a transformative effect on the city, bringing new opportunities for jobs and supply chain growth for small and medium enterprises in the region.
Speaking on this announcement, Transport Secretary Mark Harper said:
“It’s full steam ahead for the reform of our railways and today’s announcement is not only a huge win for the brilliant city of Derby, but a key milestone for the entire rail industry across the country.
“Great British Railways will put the passenger first, promoting collaboration and innovation across a joined-up, efficient and modern network.”
Derby’s application to be the host of this HQ was strong from the start, given the entrenched rail community within the city, shown through it being home to the UK's largest train factory and the extensive cluster of businesses that work within the sector.
Councillor Chris Poulter, Leader of Derby City Council, said:
“We're absolutely thrilled that Derby has been selected to become the home of Great British Railways. This result is a testament to the hard work of our team, alongside our key rail and city partners based across Derby - we couldn't have done it without them.
“Rail heritage is at the heart of our city and for this to be recognised by Government is a fantastic achievement. The investment we’ll see from this significant move will be huge, not only just for Derby but for levelling up across the whole of the wider East Midlands.
“We have a rich history of being the only city in the UK to have manufactured rolling stock continuously since 1840, so I'm thrilled that Derby's heritage is being recognised in this defining way. We can’t wait to see what this momentous move will mean for Derby and its citizens in the future.”
Whilst the HQ will be situated in Derby, a plethora of cities and towns across the UK will still see benefits, potentially including the previous other five locations shortlisted, as they will become powered up regional GBR hubs equipped with local decision making, and investment powers.
Following today’s landmark announcement, GBR’s Transition Team will now work with Derby to identify the appropriate location for the site.
Anit Chandarana, Lead Director, Great British Railways Transition Team, added:
“The announcement that Derby will be the home of the Great British Railways Headquarters is another important milestone on our journey to create a simpler and better railway for everyone in Britain.
“Although Derby will be the home of our Headquarters, Great British Railways will also introduce empowered regional centres, to bring decision making and leadership much closer to local customers and communities.
“The Transition Team is continuing to work with Government and the wider rail industry to deliver this much needed reform and we look forward to working with colleagues in Derby in the coming months, too.”
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