The UK government has selected Becketwell in Derby city centre as the location for the future headquarters of Great British Railways (GBR), alongside plans to provide up to 600 apprenticeship places for young people entering the rail industry.
The Department for Transport confirmed the decision on Thursday, 15 October 2026, as part of the government’s plans to bring passenger rail services and infrastructure under a unified publicly owned organisation.
The proposed headquarters will accommodate up to 450 staff, while the separate apprenticeship programme will offer training opportunities over the next four years.
Construction expected to begin in 2027
The headquarters will be located at 3 Springwell Square in Becketwell, a regeneration area in Derby city centre.
According to the Department for Transport, construction is expected to begin in early 2027, with completion planned for spring 2029.
The government estimates that the development could contribute £151 million to Derby and the wider regional economy.
However, this is a projection of potential economic benefits, not money already invested or economic gains already achieved.
Derby City Council confirmed that a planning application for the proposed headquarters building was submitted earlier in October.
The council said it was working with the East Midlands Combined County Authority to determine funding arrangements for the development.
The project will form part of the wider Becketwell regeneration scheme, which already includes housing, a public square and an entertainment venue.
Up to 600 apprenticeships for young people
Alongside the headquarters announcement, the government confirmed plans for up to 600 rail foundation apprenticeship places over four years.
The programme will be open to young people aged 16 to 21, with the first participants based in Derby before the scheme expands nationally.
According to Derby City Council’s apprenticeship announcement, the training will introduce participants to both track-related and train-related careers.
Foundation apprenticeships combine practical workplace experience with study towards a qualification, allowing young people to develop skills while gaining experience in the industry.
The Department for Transport said fewer than 7% of railway workers are under 25, highlighting the government’s aim to attract a younger workforce.
The announced places will be offered over four years. The government has not said that all 600 apprentices have already enrolled or begun training.
Derby to play a central role in railway reform
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said the headquarters would strengthen Derby’s position as a centre for Britain’s railway industry.
The government intends GBR to bring railway infrastructure and passenger services together under one organisation, with the aim of improving coordination and services for passengers.
Derby was originally selected as the future home of Great British Railways in March 2023.
The latest announcement confirms the specific headquarters site rather than representing a new decision about the host city.
The building remains subject to development and planning processes, while the staffing and apprenticeship commitments will be implemented over the coming years.
