Westside BID has called on businesses, staff and customers in the area to vote for Birmingham to host the new national headquarters for the Great British Railways.
Birmingham has already beaten off stiff competition from more than 40 other UK towns and cities, and is on the final shortlist alongside Crewe, Derby, Doncaster, Newcastle and York.
The government has now opened a vote to the general public until 15 August to help it measure the level of support for each destination as it makes its final decision.
Mike Olley, general manager of Westside BID, said: “Birmingham is at the centre of the UK’s railways infrastructure, and indeed the world’s first intercity railway was built direct to Birmingham.
“If you sit on a platform long enough at New Street station you will eventually see the whole of the British rail train estate pass by.
“But it’s not only the importance of the railway infrastructure that should swing a decision to locate the headquarters of Great British Railways in Britain’s most populated city, at the heart of the nation.
“Our heritage is strong and long with the provision of many headquarter offices and buildings, with The Axis building and Quayside Tower in former lives boasting a significant railway heritage.
“On top of that, Birmingham is quite simply Britain’s most central city and that is never going to change. We are a dynamic, developing and young city with the availability of fabulous modern office facilities, bespoke and off-the-shelf.”
Mr Olley said that Westside BID had joined all other BIDs in the city in supporting Birmingham’s campaign to become Great British Railways’ new headquarters.
He added: “To Great British Railways, I would say there is nothing that Birmingham can’t provide or let you have. We are truly a city that offers thousands of solutions to your needs. So, welcome, Great British Railways.”
The vote was launched by transport secretary Grant Shapps who said: “The government is committed to levelling up, delivering jobs and investment beyond the capital.
“The national headquarters will be at the heart of the rail network and provide strategic direction for the running of Great British Railways. Based outside of London, it will bring a number of high-skilled jobs to the winning location.”
To vote for Birmingham to become Great British Railways headquarters, visit: https://consultations.gbrtt.co.uk/great-british-railways/gbr-hq-vote/consultation/intro/
