BCC: 'No 10 North can be catalyst for effective devolution'

Andy Burnham today became the first Prime Minister to work from No 10 North. 

Operating from Heron House in Manchester’s city centre, No 10 North will be the Government’s new situation room for growth. 

According to Government, it brings the levers of local economic growth and devolution together under one roof for the first time.

As the PM chaired No10 North’s first meeting, he was flanked by regional mayors from across the country - offering another reminder as to how important Government regards the Devolution agenda.

Leaders from the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) network underlined why this shift is so important. 

They point out that further decentralisation has the potential to unlock regional growth, empower local leadership and strengthen collaboration between public and private sectors. 

When decisions about transport, skills, housing or business support are taken nearer to where their impact is felt, the results are usually more tailored, more agile and more effective.

Jonny Haseldine, Head of Business Environment at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: 

“The launch of No 10 North is an important signal that our regions, their people and economies matter as much as anything happening in London. 

“This is something that our Chamber Network understands only too well. Our 51 Chambers are rooted in their local communities and work tirelessly to strengthen their local business environment. 

“Further moves towards decentralisation from Westminster have the potential to unlock regional growth, empower local leadership, and foster stronger collaboration between public and private sector supply chains.  

“But it is vital that this process is inclusive. If we are to realise the ambition of good growth in every postcode, then the business voice must be heard loud and clear.

"With the right structures and partnerships, devolution can be a powerful driver of prosperity across the UK.”  

The BCC described the launch of No.10 North as a real catalyst for effective devolution and better decision‑making across the UK’s regions.

The BCC and its member Chambers are clear, a place‑based approach to policy, underpinned by strong regional institutions like No 10 North, offers a real chance to reduce the “intellectual distance” between government and the regions.