Member Article

Derby has today (21 March 2023) been named as the national headquarters of Great British Railways (GBR) – a key moment in the government’s plan to reform the rail network. 

Commenting on the announcement, Michelle Craven-Faulkner, partner and rail lead at Shoosmiths, said: 

“The long-awaited headquarters of Great British Railways has finally been announced.  

“Not only is this fantastic news for Derby, and the wider East Midlands, but also for the rail industry. It cements the commitment to move forwards with the establishment of GBR as the guiding mind of the rail network, and the organisation that will set its strategic direction.

“Shoosmiths has strong partnerships with those operating in the rail industry. We are looking forward to continuing to support clients in the transition to GBR – guiding them through the rail ecosystem as it undergoes significant economic, legislative and structural change.” 

As Europe’s largest rail hub, the announcement will now see Derby also become the home of Great Britain’s rail industry, with the government aiming to bring ‘track and train together and delivering high-skilled jobs to a city already brimming with the best talent in the industry’. 

Michael Briggs, partner and head of Shoosmiths’ Nottingham office, said:  

“Today’s announcement is welcome news for Derby, putting the East Midlands at the heart of Great Britain’s rail industry. It comes at a critical time for the region and the focus must now be on realising the opportunities associated with GBR’s new HQ – unlocking new investment and employment prospects in the East Midlands.”