Derby confirmed as home of Great British Railways months after Grantham failed to make the shortlist

Grantham's loss is Derby's gain as the city has has been announced as the location for Great British Railways (GBR).

Grantham, which had initially hoped to host the headquarters of the new public sector body, had failed to make the shortlist back in July.

Derby has now triumped against shortlisted contenders of Birmingham, Crewe, Doncaster, Newcastle and York - coming top in the assessment process and the public vote, the Department for Transport confirmed.

The DfT said: “Derby came top of all six excellent locations in both the rigorous assessment process and the public vote.

“Their application demonstrated strong links to the wider network, well-established connections with the industry, supply chain and customers, as well as an extensive local cluster of private sector rail businesses.”

Transport Secretary Mark Harper confirmed the decision saying: “It’s full steam ahead for the reform of our railways and today’s announcement is not only a huge win for the brilliant city of Derby, but a key milestone for the entire rail industry across the country.

“Great British Railways will put the passenger first, promoting collaboration and innovation across a joined-up, efficient and modern network.”

The actual site for the headquarters within Derby has yet to be pinpointed, although the bid suggested the former site of the Railway Technical Centre. It is now a business park.

He explained how the transition team will “work with Derby to identify the site for the HQ within the city, which will represent value for money for the taxpayer".

Mr Harper also praised the city's MP Amanda Solloway for her work supporting the campaign.

It is hoped GBR will simplify the rail network and improve services for passengers by absorbing the state-owned infrastructure management company Network Rail and taking on many functions from the Department for Transport.

The body’s tasks will include issuing passenger service contracts to private companies to run trains.

It was initially due to be launched in early 2024 but has been delayed.

What do you think of the decision? Let us know in the comments.