In a bold move signalling a new era of governance, Prime Minister Andy Burnham has officially launched No 10 North in Manchester, a branch of Downing Street aimed at decentralising power from Westminster. During his first day at the northern outpost, Burnham articulated his vision for a more equitable distribution of resources and influence across the country, declaring, “growth in every corner of the country” is the goal.
No 10 North: A New Hub for Governance
Situated in Heron House, central Manchester, No 10 North is more than just a new office; it represents a shift in political ethos. Burnham, flanked by his Chancellor John Healey, emphasised the significance of this move, stating that “through this place power is going to flow, energy is going to flow.” He aims for this Manchester base to be a catalyst for change, fostering collaboration between regions and central government.
The launch comes amid growing criticism from opposition parties who question whether No 10 North will deliver meaningful results, especially for underserved coastal and rural communities. The Liberal Democrats have urged Burnham to prove that this initiative is not merely a “working from home base” for him and fellow MPs from the region.
Shifting the Power Dynamics
Burnham’s ambition is clear: he intends for No 10 North to serve as a platform for driving devolution across all regions of the UK. He dismissed sceptics who believe this is just another gimmick, asserting that the traditional flow of power has been overwhelmingly London-centric. “What does it cost for everybody to troop down to London every time there’s a meeting?” Burnham asked. His proposition is that by establishing a northern presence, the government can create a more balanced political landscape.
The Prime Minister plans to chair a meeting of the National Economic Council, a body designed to tackle economic challenges nationwide. This gathering will include senior ministers and regional mayors, with a focus on placing devolution at the heart of government initiatives to better serve local communities.
Business Engagement and Economic Strategy
Burnham’s inaugural day also features discussions with business leaders from the Federation of Small Businesses, the Confederation of British Industry, and the British Chambers of Commerce. The talks are centred on strategies for fostering growth and attracting investment to the region. His administration seeks to build a robust framework that enables local entities—civil servants, mayors, councils, and businesses—to work more collaboratively.
In his first week as Prime Minister, Burnham has already made waves with policies aimed at alleviating the cost of living, including a significant 20% reduction in business rates for pubs, social clubs, and live music venues, set to take effect next April. However, he faces pushback from Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who has labelled his ambitions as “too small” and called for him to tackle broader issues, such as high energy costs and defence funding gaps.
A Vision for the Future
While Burnham’s critics express concern about the narrow focus on the north of England, his supporters argue that No 10 North is about more than just regional interests. It is about creating a governance model that is inclusive of all areas, including those that have felt neglected for too long. Liberal Democrat MP Calum Miller stressed the need for Burnham to show that his plans incorporate the needs of rural and coastal communities as well.
Long-term, No 10 North is expected to move to a new site currently under construction in Manchester’s Ancoats area, with completion anticipated by 2032. The initiative aligns with broader governmental efforts to decentralise civil service roles, with a target of reducing the number of positions in London by 12,000.
Why it Matters
Burnham’s establishment of No 10 North represents a significant turning point in UK governance, aiming to redistribute political power and economic resources away from London. This initiative could reshape the political landscape, enhancing regional representation and fostering a sense of inclusivity across the nation. As Burnham embarks on this ambitious journey, the eyes of the country will be on him to see if this new approach can translate into tangible benefits for all citizens, not just those in the north.
