Derby city centre site chosen for rail HQ building

A site close to the recently completed Vaillant Live Arena in Derby city centre has been chosen for the Great British Railways’ (GBR) headquarters.

Construction of the office block is expected to begin in early 2027 and be completed by spring 2029. The new HQ will bring hundreds of rail jobs to the city and an estimated £151 million boost to the region’s economy, supporting the government’s mission to drive growth in every postcode.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said: “Great British Railways will have its home in Derby, a city that has railways in its DNA. This will bring investment and good jobs, giving young people the chance to build their future in the place they call home.”

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: “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.”

The headquarters will accommodate up to 450 GBR staff and be supported by better public transport links and walking routes, delivered in partnership with the Department for Transport, Derby City Council and the East Midlands Combined Authority.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, added: “This is fantastic news for Derby. 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. 

“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, without feeling they have to move away to find those opportunities.”