British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has opened a new government office in Manchester, saying the move marks the beginning of a major shift in political power and investment away from London.
The new office, known as "No. 10 North," is about 260 kilometres from the prime minister's official residence at 10 Downing Street and is central to Burnham's plan to give more powers and funding to regional leaders across the UK.
Burnham, who previously served as Mayor of Greater Manchester before becoming prime minister, said the office represents "a North Pole that balances the South Pole" of Westminster politics.
"This is not just another office. It represents a fundamental change in how the country approaches growth and investment," he said on Friday.
Burnham plans to work from the Manchester office at least one day each week alongside a permanent team of advisers, civil servants and policy experts.
More powers for local leaders
As part of the new approach, Burnham announced that regional mayors will be allowed to keep a larger share of income and business tax revenue collected in their areas.
He described the move as the biggest transfer of power, funding and responsibility from the central government in a generation, although details of the funding arrangements have yet to be released.
Burnham hopes the policy will help create jobs and boost economic growth in areas that have struggled with industrial decline, unemployment and population loss.
Building on Manchester's success
During his nine years as Greater Manchester mayor, Burnham oversaw major investment in the city, including new housing, public transport and business development.
Supporters say his approach combined public investment with private sector partnerships while giving local communities greater control over housing, transport and public services.
Burnham now wants to apply the same model across the country.
Mixed reactions
Political analyst Rob Ford of the University of Manchester said the move shows Burnham is serious about reducing the UK's traditionally centralised system of government.
"The UK is one of the most centralised democracies in the developed world. Changing that will be a major challenge," Ford said.
Critics, however, argue that Manchester's economic success has not benefited all surrounding communities and say Burnham must ensure other regions also receive greater powers and investment.
Support from regional leaders
Supporters welcomed the decision to establish a government office outside London.
Rose Marley, chief executive of Cooperatives UK, said holding government meetings in Manchester would make it easier for organisations outside the capital to engage with ministers.
She also said the move could help ensure a wider range of regional voices is heard in national decision-making.
Some residents also supported the initiative but said similar offices should eventually be created in other parts of England to ensure balanced regional development.
Burnham said No. 10 North is intended to become a permanent centre for regional decision-making as part of his government's broader plan to reduce the UK's long-standing economic divide between London and the rest of the country.