The UK Treasury has announced a significant expansion of its second headquarters, with plans to establish a new tech hub in the Midlands. The move is expected to create around 200 high-skilled jobs and drive economic growth in the region.
The decision follows the success of the Treasury's existing Northern hub in Darlington, which has already brought hundreds of government roles outside London. The new Midlands base will focus on digital innovation, working closely with regulators such as Ofcom.
Decentralising Whitehall's Power
This expansion is part of the government's broader 'levelling up' agenda, aiming to redistribute economic opportunities across the UK. By establishing a presence in the Midlands, the Treasury hopes to tap into the region's growing tech talent pool while reducing London's dominance in policymaking.
Boosting Local Economies
The new hub is expected to:
- Create approximately 200 skilled jobs in technology and finance
- Attract private sector investment to the region
- Develop partnerships with local universities and businesses
- Support the government's digital transformation initiatives
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt stated that this move demonstrates the government's commitment to spreading opportunity across the country. "The Midlands has enormous potential in the tech sector, and we want to be part of that growth story," he said.
A Growing Tech Corridor
The Midlands has emerged as a significant player in the UK's technology landscape, with Birmingham recently being named one of Europe's fastest-growing tech cities. The Treasury's presence is expected to further accelerate this growth, creating a ripple effect across the regional economy.
While the exact location of the new hub hasn't been confirmed, several Midlands cities are reportedly under consideration. The final decision is expected to be announced in the coming months, with operations likely to begin in 2025.
