Great British Railways (GBR) has taken a major step towards becoming the new public body responsible for Britain’s rail network after the Government confirmed Derby as the location of its future headquarters and unveiled plans for up to 600 rail apprenticeships.
The announcement marks a significant milestone in the Government’s programme to bring the railway under public ownership, with the new headquarters expected to accommodate up to 450 staff and provide a focal point for GBR’s operations.
The purpose-built facility will be located at Becketwell in Derby city centre, a brownfield regeneration site where construction is due to begin in early 2027. The development is expected to be completed by spring 2029 and is forecast to deliver a £151 million boost to the regional economy while creating hundreds of rail industry jobs.
The Government said locating the headquarters in Derby reinforced the city’s status as a major centre for the UK rail sector and would help strengthen collaboration across the industry as GBR assumes responsibility for improving rail services and infrastructure.
Alongside the headquarters announcement, ministers confirmed that up to 600 young people aged between 16 and 21 would be offered places on a new rail foundation apprenticeship programme over the next four years. The initiative is intended to help develop the next generation of rail professionals at a time when fewer than 7% of the industry’s workforce is under the age of 25.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said the decision highlighted Derby’s importance to the future of the rail industry.
“The biggest shake-up to our railways in a generation is underway. Great British Railways will bring the railway together around one mission - better services for passengers - with Derby at the heart of its future,” she said.
“I’m delighted Becketwell will become GBR’s new home, building on Derby’s proud rail heritage and bringing jobs, investment and opportunity to the city.
“With 600 apprenticeships opening up, we’re investing not just in the railway of tomorrow, but in the people who will build it.”
The new headquarters announcement followed confirmation of a £1 billion investment in a fleet of trains for northern England that will be built at
Alstom's Derby manufacturing site, supporting skilled employment and apprenticeship opportunities in the region.
Government ministers said the combination of the new headquarters, rolling stock investment and apprenticeship programme would strengthen Derby’s position as one of Europe’s leading rail hubs while helping address future skills requirements across the sector.
The rail foundation apprenticeship scheme will combine workplace experience with formal qualifications, providing a route into skilled engineering, technical and operational careers.
Welcoming the decision, East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward said the investment would bring both jobs and long-term opportunities to the region.
“Rail has been part of our region for generations and I’m delighted that Great British Railways will be based here, bringing hundreds of jobs into the city,” she said.
“I’m particularly pleased about the 600 apprenticeship places. Young people should have the chance to learn new skills and build a career in an industry with such deep roots here.”