No10 North Opens in Manchester as Government Revives National Economic Council

MANCHESTER — The UK Government has formally opened No10 North, a new centre of government in Manchester intended to move more economic and political decision-making beyond Westminster.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham became the first prime minister to work from the new office on 23 July, declaring that the Government wanted power to flow out of Whitehall and into communities across the country.

The opening follows a major restructuring announced the previous day. Local economic-growth policy and devolution strategy are being brought together within No10 North, which the Government describes as an "engine room" for regional growth.

The Prime Minister also revived the National Economic Council in Manchester, bringing ministers and regional mayors together to discuss economic priorities. The Government says the council will give local leaders a more direct role in shaping national decisions on investment, infrastructure, skills and growth.

The move is intended to address long-standing criticism that political authority, civil-service capacity and public investment have been too heavily concentrated in London. Ministers argue that a permanent centre in Manchester can improve coordination between national policy and regional priorities.

The Government announced the opening alongside measures including the restoration of a £2 bus-fare cap, removing VAT from household electricity bills and reducing business rates for pubs, clubs and music venues. These policies were presented as part of a wider effort to reduce costs and strengthen local economies.

However, the creation of a new office will not by itself guarantee meaningful devolution. Regional leaders will expect control over budgets, longer-term funding arrangements and clear authority rather than another consultation structure.

The performance of No10 North should be measured against practical outcomes: investment secured, businesses supported, transport improved, homes built, skills developed and the extent to which local leaders influence central-government decisions.

There will also be questions about duplication. The Government must clarify how No10 North will work with existing departments, combined authorities, mayors and local councils.

The office carries significant symbolic value, but its credibility will depend on whether it genuinely changes the geography of decision-making and produces visible benefits for communities outside London.