DfT creates new hubs in Birmingham and Leeds

The Department for Transport is to create a second headquarters in Birmingham and a northern hub in Leeds, as part of what the Government says is its commitment to ensuring that decisions are made in the communities they serve.

At Birmingham, there will be new ministerial offices, with ministers expected to spend significant time there. The DfT has started recruitment in both cities, with 100 roles including senior civil servant positions created so far.

Secretary of State for Transport Grant Shapps said: “This is a historic move for the Department and part of a significant wider culture change across Whitehall.

“Transport is absolutely vital to the local communities we serve and having hubs in major cities like Birmingham and Leeds will offer a fresh perspective on how we can better serve these areas.”

Rail Minister Chris Heaton-Harris added: “Our department has a key role to play in this government’s drive to level up across the country. Having hundreds more roles based outside of London will not only bring an economic boost for Birmingham and Leeds, but also ensure we are delivering the changes people around the country want.”

Midlands Connect Chief Executive Maria Machancoses described the news as “fantastic”, adding: “The Midlands plays a vital role at the heart of the UK transport network. It can now be at the centre of policymaking, too.

“Moving skilled jobs and Ministerial offices out of Westminster is an essential part of levelling up. Birmingham is home to a wealth of talent and transport knowledge, and I have no doubt this move will be a huge success.”