Derby College Group welcomes the Great British Railways Headquarters announcement

There was great excitement as Derby College Group’s flagship technical and professional skills college, The Roundhouse, took centre stage for the announcement of Derby as the home of the Great British Railways (GBR) headquarters.

Derby College Group’s CEO Mandie Stravino OBE, who was part of the original delegation for the GBR bid, welcomed the Rt Hon Mark Harper MP, Secretary of State for Transport to the city.

She said:

“We are delighted that Derby has been selected as the HQ for The Great British Railways. It reaffirms Derby’s place at the heart of UK rail. And it is a great choice as a considerable number of rail supply businesses are located in Derby, alongside a significant number of skilled manufacturing jobs.

“The Roundhouse is the perfect venue for this historical announcement as it reflects Derby’s heritage as a rail city and acknowledges our track record and commitment to working in partnership with a wide range of industry employers to train and develop the skilled workforce they require both now and in the future.

“As a College, we are integral to helping grow the rail industry in the city as we recognise the positive impact of creating high-quality job opportunities.

“Congratulations to Derby City and everyone involved in the bid.”

Derby College Group hosted the Department For Transport delegation, along with a number of significant stakeholders.

Mark Harper, Secretary of State for Transport and his delegation were given a tour of the Derby Roundhouse by Mandie Starvino, CEO and Brian Malyan, Assistant Principal (Technology), demonstrating the connection between the Derby College Roundhouse site, both historically and currently with the rail industry.

The minister then had the opportunity to hear directly from a number of Derby College Group students, who gave him an insight into being an apprentice associated with the rail industry and also working with some of the leading rail companies and suppliers in the UK.

Andrew Cochrane, Chair of Governors for Derby College Group, welcomed the minister who then formally announced Derby as the location of the HQ for the Great British Railways. This was followed by Chris Poulter, Derby City Council Leader, who thanked the minister and reinforced the message that Derby was an excellent choice for the GBR headquarters.

Transport Secretary, Mark Harper said of his visit “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.

“I’d like to thank Derby College for playing an important part by hosting today’s announcement and showcasing their impressive site.

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

Derby College Group is now looking forward to helping shape the future of the Great British Railways.