Two city locations shortlisted for new rail HQ

Two sites in Derby have been shortlisted to become the new headquarters of Great British Railways (GBR).

The new public body will own the rail infrastructure, procure passenger services and set most fares and timetables.

A brownfield site next to the recently opened Valliant Live entertainment venue, and Midland House opposite Derby Railway Station, are the two contenders.

The final decision on the location will be made "before the end of 2026", Network Rail said.

Baggy Shanker, Labour MP for Derby South, welcomed the shortlist and said it would "bring more people into the city centre each day".

Derby was named as the successful bidder for the headquarters in 2023.

Network Rail said GBR - which will replace it - brings together the work of 17 different organisations.

Shanker said: "I've been backing Derby as the home for Great British Railways for many years, and the shortlisting of two sites in our city is an important step forward.

"The priority now is making sure the headquarters delivers the strongest return for Derby, and that is why I support the city centre site."

Catherine Atkinson, Labour MP for Derby North, welcomed the announcement and said the new HQ would boost wider regeneration of the city centre.

The final decision will take into account a range of factors, including regeneration, economic value, value for money, and the environment, Network Rail said.

Chief executive Jeremy Westlake said he was excited to work with longstanding partners in Derby to create a "centre of excellence" with the base.

"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," he said.

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