New HQ must be part of just transition to Great British Railways - TSSA  

Rail union TSSA has described as a "new chapter" official confirmation of the headquarters of Great British Railways (GBR) in Derby, but again called for jobs, pay and conditions to be protected in the move away from privatisation.

TSSA General Secretary, Maryam Eslamdoust, witnessed the unveiling of the official location of GBR at a brownfield site in the heart of Derby (Thursday 15th October). Work on the building is expected to begin early next year, with completion due in 2029.  

Commenting, Maryam Eslamdoust said: "This is a new chapter and not only good news for Derby and the wider rail network but another major step towards the end of the long, wasted years of rail privatisation.

"The Prime Minister is right in saying that for too long we have had a railway which let people down - a direct result of the profit driven model ushered in by the Conservatives in the 1990s. During that period our brilliant members have been on the front line, keeping the network running every single day.   

"Now the government must also step up and make sure GBR is a just transition for all rail workers. Already we are seeing far too many job losses across train companies and in Network Rail, none of which strengthens the railway. It is time to act to protect rail workers jobs, pay, pensions and travel facilities. GBR should be focused at making railways better not taking aways the hard-earned rights of the workforce".