Rail Campus Derby, the proposed hub which will house businesses, training facilities and the headquarters of Great British Railways, was officially launched today, signalling a transformative moment for the UK’s rail sector.
The East Midlands Combined County Authority and Derby City Council hosted the event, showcasing their shared vision for the city’s role in shaping the future of Britain’s railways. The Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, delivered a keynote speech highlighting the region’s proud railway heritage and its ambitions for growth, innovation, and skills development.
“The arrival of Great British Railways in Derby represents a landmark opportunity, not just for the city but for the entire East Midlands,” said Mayor Claire. She expressed gratitude to Derby City Council for their ambitious plans and praised the efforts of Council Leader and Deputy Mayor Nadine Peatfield, describing her leadership as “instrumental in making today a reality.”
The Rail Campus aims to be a centre of learning and collaboration, bringing together public and private organisations to drive forward advancements in railway technology. Mayor Claire outlined her vision for local people to gain the skills needed for well-paid jobs through training programmes developed in partnership with educational institutions in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.
“From engineering to manufacturing and beyond, the economic impact will be felt across our region,” the mayor stated. “We want to see local people—our young people—benefiting from the jobs and careers this project will generate.”
The event also saw the presence of Secretary of State for Transport Lou Haigh, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the East Midlands and its growing rail sector.
Derby’s designation as the GBR headquarters solidifies the city’s status as the UK’s Transport Capital, a theme echoed by Mayor Claire. “The East Midlands is the beating heart of the UK’s transport industry. This confluence of transport excellence makes the East Midlands the UK’s Transport Capital, serving markets both at home and abroad.”
The mayor pledged the Combined County Authority’s full support for the project, promising collaboration with businesses, educational institutions, and local authorities to ensure its success. “We are poised to make this region the global leader in rail technology and innovation,” she concluded.
The launch event featured a range of sessions, including a panel discussion on economic growth through exports and an exhibition space showcasing the expertise and capabilities of local and national rail businesses.
The Rail Campus Derby represents not only a new chapter in Derby’s railway story but also a significant step forward in realising the UK’s ambitions for a world-leading railway network.