Potential Great British Railways HQ plans submitted

Plans to build an eight-storey office building on a site shortlisted to become the headquarters of Great British Railways (GBR) have been submitted.

Developer St James Securities said the 106,544 sq ft (9,898 sq m) building, in the Becketwell area of Derby, could support up to 1,000 jobs and generate up to £100m for the city if GBR chooses the site.

The former Duckworth Square site, next to Valliant Live entertainment venue, and Midland House opposite Derby Railway Station, are the two contenders for the location of GBR HQ.

St James Securities said a final decision on GBR HQ's location is "expected shortly". The Department for Transport declined to comment.

In May 2021, former transport secretary Grant Shapps announced GBR would be set up to replace what he called an "overcomplicated and fragmented" system.

After a lengthy process, Derby beat five other towns and cities to be the headquarters of the body, which will oversee rail transport in Great Britain.

The selection criteria included alignment with transport connections, railway heritage, and value for money.

The planning application is part of Derby's wider £200m Becketwell regeneration scheme.

If approved, construction on the former Duckworth Square site would start next summer, with completion targeted for late spring 2029.

St James Securities said the plans for the potential GBR HQ include an extension to Springwell Square and a new "pocket park" in Macklin Street.

Paul Morris, development director of St James Securities, said the application came after "strong support" following a public consultation.

"The proposals have been shaped by the valuable feedback received during the public consultation, and we're pleased to bring forward plans for a landmark office building that will deliver high-quality, sustainable workspace alongside attractive new public spaces in the heart of the city," he said.

Leader of Derby City Council, Nadine Peatfield, hopes the development will increase footfall and provide a boost to the city centre.

"Becketwell is one of our flagship regeneration projects, bringing work, leisure and living back to our high streets. The submission of this planning application for 3 Springwell Square is another milestone in the development," said Peatfield.

"The addition of high-quality office space will bring hundreds of new jobs and significant economic benefits to the city centre. More people will travel on our public transport, eat in our restaurants, and support our amazing local businesses."

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