Northern leaders have collectively called on Prime Minister Andy Burnham to establish a new partnership between central government and the North, placing devolution at the heart of national renewal. In an open letter from The Great North, mayors and leaders argue that a fundamental shift in the relationship is needed to unlock the region's potential.
Devolution-First Approach
The letter stresses that devolution has already transformed local leadership across the North, but a more fundamental shift must now occur. The Great North says the North should be recognised as a strategic partner in UK governance, alongside the devolved nations, with a stronger collective voice reflecting its scale, economic weight and democratic leadership.
Chair of The Great North and North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: “The North is mighty. We power Britain’s industries, produce world-leading innovation, create culture that is recognised around the world and are home to millions of talented people with huge ambition. Andy Burnham knows the North and the massive potential at our disposal. He helped shape The Great North and, as Mayor, consistently argued that Westminster had to trust places like ours with more power and responsibility. Now he has the opportunity to turn those arguments into lasting change – working with us to create a more prosperous future for the North of England and the United Kingdom.”
Business Community Weighs In
Emma Holt, CEO of Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, also penned an open letter to the Prime Minister, congratulating him and outlining key business concerns. The Chamber, with around 3,500 members and a reach of 37,000 businesses, emphasised that cities and city regions are vital to the UK's growth story. Ms Holt said: “Since 2017, in Greater Manchester, we have enjoyed stability of leadership, delivery of policy, and strong engagement with local government which we’re sure will continue. Nationally, we look forward to seeing clearer, longer-term policy, to greater investment and focus on the North of England, and to the devolution model, proven in Greater Manchester, developed across more Mayoral authorities.”
Unlocking Investment
Ms Holt added: “What the country needs now is the excitement, optimism and economic growth you delivered for Greater Manchester. We encourage policy certainty for businesses, this will help unlock business investment and showcase Britain as not just open for business but the best destination for investment and job creation. We look forward to continuing our relationship and would welcome the opportunity to meet in the coming weeks to discuss how we can support your government’s priorities for Greater Manchester and the North.”
Prime Minister Burnham, a founding member of The Great North when Mayor of Greater Manchester, has made devolution a focal part of his agenda, including establishing a 'Number 10 North' to rebalance power and prosperity across the country.
