The location of the new headquarters for the newly nationalised Great British Railways (GBR) has taken a step closer to being revealed.

With its long association with building, manufacturing and overhauling rolling stock, which continues to this day, it was announced in 2023 that Derby would be the base of GBR’s new HQ. Of the original five potential sites across the capital of Derbyshire, the list has now been shortened down to just two.

Of the two remaining sites, one is ‘Midland House’, an existing railway building right opposite Derby station, while the other is ‘Becketwell’, which is currently a brownfield site earmarked for redevelopment in Derby’s city centre.

At present, DfTO (Department for Transport Operator), made up of former Train Operating Companies networks that have already returned to the Government’s public sector, and Network Rail, are jointly operating the UK’s rail network during this transition period. Their current Headquarters is also situated in Derby at ‘John Ellis House’

GBR’s new HQ will consolidate the work of 17 different companies under one organisation, which will operate, maintain, and improve Great Britain’s railway network as a whole.

Before either ‘Midland House’ or ‘Becketwell’ is decided upon as a final location, factors such as economic and regeneration value, environmental and social impacts on the respective local areas will need to be addressed and taken into consideration.

A final decision of the location of Great British Railways new Headquarters will be announced later in 2026.

“Derby will be the heart of Great British Railways and with these shortlisted locations, we’re one step closer to bringing highly-skilled jobs to a city already brimming with rail industry history and talent. 

“We’re working with local partners and teams around the country to design an organisation that will put passengers front and centre, driving jobs, growth and innovation in the Midlands and beyond.”

Rail Minister, Lord Hendy

“This is an important step forward on our journey to GBR, and we are excited to be working with longstanding partners in Derby, as we come together to create a centre of excellence which will play a key role in the future of the entire railway industry.

“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.”

Jeremy Westlake, Chief Executive for Network Rail