localzuk

The government is going to be setting up Great British Railways to take over the franchises soon.

So, how about a suggestion for their HQ?

Signal Point building in Swindon. Sure it needs refurbishing, but it seems like the ideal home.

And, Network Rail, which will be merged into GBR, already owns it.

#UKPolitics #Swindon #GreatBritishRailways

Jul 26, 2024 at 8:49amWeb
Show threadThe Penguin of EvilJul 26, 2024
@localzuk There are more run down places that need the jobs and rejuvenation and have good rail ties than Swindon, which is already doing very nicely in comparison - Crewe for example.
Show threadlocalzukJul 26, 2024

@etchedpixels Swindon has higher deprivation than Crewe according to the ONS...

But, if we choose locations in the way you suggest, then Brimington should get it...

Show threadEpistatacadamJul 26, 2024
@localzuk and whilst we're at it could we drop the Great bit, as I presume ScotRsil and TFW will remain devolved, so it ain't GBRail it's England Railways.
A Swindon HQ sounds ideal close to the network and supports devolving business out of London, Engineering works in Darlington, and Derby as the next step?
Show threadBrian SmithJul 26, 2024

@localzuk
There will probably still be a need for a Political HQ within easy reach of the department against public transport, but most things are already decentralised, so every thing else can be spread out.

Could also make a case for Derby.

Show threadJulie (she/her)Jul 26, 2024
Thought Derby had won the competition for HQ (Swindon did apply but was not chosen) - or is there an expectation the new govt will review this?