For the first time in modern British politics, the office of a sitting prime minister is extending beyond London, as Andy Burnham launches a new base in Manchester known as No. 10 North.
The move is part of Burnham’s wider plan to decentralise government, giving regions outside the capital greater influence over decision-making and a bigger role in driving economic growth.
Located about 260 kilometres from the traditional seat of power at 10 Downing Street, the Manchester office will serve as a working base for the prime minister, supported by advisers, policy specialists and civil servants.
Burnham, who previously served as mayor of Greater Manchester, said the initiative represents a fundamental change in how Britain approaches investment and development.
“It’s not another office. It is a fundamental change to the way the country thinks about growth and investment”, Burnham said.
He described No. 10 North as a counterbalance to Westminster, saying the country needed a new approach that spreads opportunities beyond London.
The move marks a significant departure from tradition, with previous British prime ministers maintaining local political ties but not establishing a permanent government office of this scale outside the capital.
Burnham’s strategy is influenced by his years leading Greater Manchester, where he promoted greater regional control over areas such as transport, housing, skills and public services.
His approach, known by some as “Manchesterism,” focused on combining public leadership with private investment to transform the city’s economy.
During his tenure as mayor, Manchester saw major redevelopment, including growth in its city centre, expansion of transport networks and increased investment in business and service sectors.
Now, as prime minister, Burnham wants to apply that model across the United Kingdom.
One of his first major steps has been a plan to allow regional mayors to retain a larger share of income and business tax revenues generated in their areas, which he described as a major transfer of power from Westminster
