Great British Railways Unveils New Headquarters and Apprenticeship Programme

Rail passengers across Britain are inching closer to a railway system that prioritises their needs, as the location of the Great British Railways (GBR) headquarters was officially revealed today, 15 October 2026, in Derby. This initiative promises to provide up to 600 new apprenticeship opportunities for young residents over the next four years, further enhancing the local workforce.

This pivotal decision represents a significant advancement in the government’s initiative to create a publicly owned railway that places passengers and customers at its forefront, rather than catering to private shareholders. The transition of operators’ services into public ownership is already yielding positive outcomes, evidenced by the freezing of fares for the first time in three decades, the addition of 76,000 extra seats each week across the rail network, and the construction of a fleet of new GBR trains in Britain designed to serve key cities in the north while generating thousands of jobs.

Investment and Job Creation in Derby

The new development at Becketwell, a brownfield site situated in the centre of Derby, is anticipated to commence construction in early 2027, with completion expected by spring 2029. This new headquarters is projected to create hundreds of rail-related jobs and inject an estimated £151 million into the regional economy, aligning with the government’s mission to foster growth in every area.

As GBR progresses, the future workforce is being safeguarded through the introduction of up to 600 apprenticeships for individuals aged between 16 and 21. The inaugural apprentices will be based in Derby, further solidifying the city’s status as Europe’s largest rail hub and nurturing the next generation of the country’s railway workforce.

Government Officials Emphasise Commitment to Rail Reform

Prime Minister Andy Burnham commented, “For too long, people have endured a railway system that frequently fails to meet their expectations. When trying to commute, visit family, or return home, passengers should have confidence that their train will arrive on time. Today’s announcement is a significant step forward. Great British Railways will find its home in Derby, a city steeped in railway heritage. This will attract investment and create quality jobs, providing young people with opportunities to build their futures in their hometown. We are restoring hope by generating opportunities and placing essential services back into public hands to serve the community effectively.”

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander added, “We are witnessing the most extensive reform of our railways in a generation. Great British Railways will unify the railway system under one mission: to enhance services for passengers, with Derby at the core of its future. I am thrilled that Becketwell will serve as GBR’s new headquarters, reinforcing Derby’s esteemed rail legacy while generating jobs and opportunities for the city.”

Supporting the Future of the Rail Industry

The modern headquarters in Derby will act as a central hub for GBR’s operations, enhancing collaboration and establishing the city as a focal point in the effort to improve Britain’s railways. The facility will house up to 450 GBR staff and will benefit from improved public transport links and pedestrian routes, developed in partnership with the Department for Transport, Derby City Council, and the East Midlands Combined Authority.

This announcement builds upon a recent £1 billion investment to establish a new fleet of trains for the north, set to be constructed at Alstom’s Derby site, thereby supporting hundreds of skilled jobs and apprenticeships. As the region prepares to lead the charge in the railway sector, Derby is poised to play a crucial role in a transformative era for British rail, fostering investment, skills, and high-quality employment throughout the Midlands.

Empowering Young People through Apprenticeships

The introduction of the new headquarters and foundation apprenticeships aims to connect young individuals with employment opportunities, thus securing the industry’s future when less than 7% of the railway workforce is under the age of 25. These foundation apprenticeships will combine practical experience with qualifications, offering young people a pathway into skilled employment as part of the government’s Youth Guarantee, which ensures that everyone has a chance to either earn or learn.

Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden remarked, “We are committed to establishing a robust pipeline of skilled workers essential for a thriving rail sector. This foundation apprenticeship will enable young people to explore career opportunities within the industry during an exciting period, developing their technical expertise while earning.” This initiative is part of a £2.5 billion youth employment support package, aiming to create up to 500,000 opportunities for young individuals to earn or learn while assisting employers in engaging with young talent.

Celebrating Derby’s Railway Heritage

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, expressed enthusiasm about the announcement, stating, “This is wonderful news for Derby. The railway has been integral to our region for generations, and I am thrilled that Great British Railways will be established here, bringing hundreds of jobs to the city. The creation of 600 apprenticeship places is particularly gratifying. Young people should have the opportunity to acquire new skills and build careers in an industry with such strong ties to the area, without feeling compelled to relocate for those opportunities.”

With its rich history in the railway sector, Derby is now positioned to offer the next generation a chance to contribute to its future. This development not only promises to bring additional skilled jobs to the region but also empowers young people as they embark on their professional journeys.