Andy Burnham's ambitious plan to establish a 'No 10 of the North' in Manchester has been dealt a blow, with reports indicating the proposed site will not be ready for use until 2032. The Makerfield MP, who is the only declared candidate to replace Sir Keir Starmer as Labour leader, has pledged to spend time in Manchester as Prime Minister, but the five-acre civil service hub near Manchester Piccadilly station is still years from completion.
Burnham's Devolution Vision Hits a Snag
In his first broadcast interview since Sir Keir resigned last month, Burnham told LBC: "This is about obviously extending the Downing Street operation, creating a North Pole, if you like, so that the country can see that the power is more balanced. Number 10 North will act in the interests of everywhere, though." However, the Treasury only approved the site earlier this year, and construction has yet to begin, according to the Daily Mail. Planning documents suggest it won't be operational until 2032, three years after the latest possible date for the next general election.
Security and Logistics for a Northern PM
Burnham cannot be based just anywhere as Prime Minister; the traditional residence in Downing Street is located in a gated area closed off from public access and guarded by armed police around the clock. While the Manchester site may be a viable alternative, its delayed timeline raises questions about his ability to fulfill his promise. Pressed on a specific location, Burnham said: "There is already a proposal for a government digital campus close to Manchester Piccadilly, so it is my intention, if I get the opportunity, is to base it there. I will spend time there, because I think it's really important to show a new drive around taking power out of Westminster. Why? To get growth in every postcode around the country."
Chancellor Decision Still Pending
As the July 20 date for Sir Keir's exit looms, Burnham has yet to decide who will be his chancellor of the exchequer. He told the press he "hasn't made those decisions and deliberately not" during interviews this week. "I didn't answer questions, and some people criticise me for that, but again, I'm challenging some of the prevailing culture, where it immediately will go into a Westminster obsession," he said.
