Manchester has emerged as a beacon of hope in the fight against inner-city deprivation, boasting the largest decline in poverty levels across the UK. As Andy Burnham, the city’s mayor and potential successor to Keir Starmer, positions himself for a leadership challenge, he is highlighting Manchester’s economic revival as a blueprint for national policy. A recent report from the Centre for Cities underscores Manchester’s significant progress, marking a transformative period for the city and its residents.
A Landmark Report
According to the Centre for Cities’ findings, Manchester achieved a staggering 17-percentage-point drop in inner-city deprivation from 2010 to 2025. This impressive statistic places Manchester at the forefront of 63 major towns and cities analysed in the report. Such progress is not only a testament to local governance but also frames Burnham’s vision of “Manchesterism” — a philosophy advocating for a more interventionist economic approach.
In stark contrast, the report revealed that while Manchester celebrated its successes, other urban areas in the North and Midlands have seen deprivation levels rise. This dichotomy highlights the varying fortunes of cities across the UK, with Burnham’s leadership being crucial in the capital’s revival.
Deprivation Declines, Hope Rises
The analysis leveraged the indices of multiple deprivation across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, examining factors such as employment, education, health, and crime. Notably, London and Liverpool also contributed to the overall decline in deprivation, yet Manchester stands out with a significant reduction in its inner-city neighbourhoods. In 2025, 58.4% of these areas were classified among the most deprived, a drop from 75.7% in 2010.
Burnham’s upcoming campaign in the Makerfield byelection marks a critical moment for him. Representing one of the furthest constituencies from Manchester’s city centre, Burnham’s challenge will test his appeal beyond the urban core and into the suburbs.
The Bigger Picture
While Manchester’s achievements are commendable, the report also paints a troubling picture for other parts of urban Britain. Seven out of the ten cities experiencing the most significant increases in deprivation were located in the North and Midlands, including Derby and Sunderland. These contrasting outcomes call for urgent action and investment in regions lagging behind.
Andrew Carter, the chief executive of the Centre for Cities, emphasised the need for government support for metro mayors. He argued that cities with devolved powers have consistently outperformed their smaller counterparts, suggesting that further investment in local governance could yield substantial returns in economic growth.
Why it Matters
The findings from the Centre for Cities not only illuminate Manchester’s success but also serve as a wake-up call for policymakers nationwide. As Burnham champions a vision for economic intervention, the report underscores the importance of empowering local leaders to address disparities in urban development. The future of cities like Manchester could very well set the stage for a nationwide shift, making the case for a new era of governance that prioritises local needs and aspirations.
