Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander announced today that Becketwell, a significant city centre brownfield regeneration site, will be the new home for GBR. Mayor Claire Ward, who has strongly advocated for Becketwell, stated that the decision will drive regeneration, strengthen the city centre economy, and bring hundreds of workers to Derby.
Mayor Ward expressed her delight, saying: "This is fantastic news for Derby. Rail has been part of our region for generations and I’m delighted Great British Railways will be based here, bringing hundreds of jobs into the city. Becketwell is transforming the city centre and GBR choosing to make its home here is a real boost for the city. Hundreds of people working there will mean more customers for local shops, cafés and restaurants, as well as more people spending time in the city centre."
The Becketwell site was initially shortlisted in February alongside Midland House, near Derby Railway Station. Derby was chosen as the location for GBR's headquarters in 2023 following a competitive process highlighting the city's rail expertise and industrial heritage. GBR will be the first occupants of the new 3 Springwell Square office development at Becketwell, described by Derby City Council as the most significant urban regeneration scheme in Derby for three decades.
Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Derby City Council leader, called the announcement "fantastic news for our city centre, which will reap the benefits of hosting a key government operation." She added that with the new office nearing completion, the city is ready to begin an exciting new chapter.
Construction of the new GBR headquarters is expected to commence in early 2027 and be completed by spring 2029. The move is anticipated to bring an estimated £151 million boost to the region's economy. Prime Minister Andy Burnham commented that GBR's presence in Derby, a city with a strong railway heritage, will bring investment and jobs, offering young people opportunities to build their future locally.
In addition to the headquarters, plans include enrolling up to 600 apprentices aged 16-21 over the next four years on the rail foundation apprenticeship programme, with the first cohort based in Derby. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander highlighted this as part of a major shake-up to the railways, with Derby at the heart of GBR's mission to improve services.
Mayor Claire Ward also expressed particular pleasure regarding the apprenticeship places, stating: "Young people should have the chance to learn new skills and build a career in an industry with such deep roots here, without feeling they have to move away to find those opportunities."
The Department for Transport (DfT) confirmed that the new headquarters will accommodate up to 450 GBR staff and will be supported by improved public transport links and walking routes, developed in partnership with the DfT, Derby City Council, and the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).
