Regional Mayors Lead UK Economic Policy as No 10 North Opens 2026

Regional mayors are set to take a leading role in the UK's economic policy as part of the new No 10 North initiative, according to Andy Burnham. The prime minister has revived the National Economic Council (NEC) to drive growth with the same urgency seen during the 2008 financial crisis, placing devolution at the heart of his government's mission.

The Revival of the National Economic Council

First established by Gordon Brown during the 2008 crash, the NEC is being relaunched to coordinate economic strategy across Whitehall and regions. Burnham will chair its inaugural meeting on Friday, bringing together senior ministers and regional mayors to put decision-making power closer to communities.

In an article for the Guardian, Burnham stated: “No one in government loses when power is shared.” The council aims to break the London-centric model and accelerate economic growth by leveraging local knowledge and authority.

Andy Burnham’s Vision for No 10 North

Burnham becomes the first British leader to run the government weekly from Manchester. No 10 North is designed to correct the imbalance where Whitehall outposts lack real authority. He argues that driving growth from the most powerful office in the land, in close alignment with the Treasury, will bring a sea change in how Britain is governed.

However, critics question whether the operation is tokenistic. The creation of a new Prime Minister’s department—the Office for the Prime Minister and the Cabinet—led by enforcer Louise Haigh, adds a layer of central oversight that may contradict the devolution message.

Key Takeaways

• Regional mayors will chair NEC meetings and influence national economic strategy.
• No 10 North shifts operational power from London to Manchester on a weekly basis.
• The new Office for the Prime Minister and the Cabinet oversees both No 10 North and London operations.
• Critics warn that central oversight could undermine genuine devolution.
• Business groups welcome the focus on local growth but demand clear metrics.

Implications for Businesses and Investors

With regional mayors gaining direct influence over economic policy, businesses can expect more tailored support for infrastructure, skills, and investment. The NEC will prioritise projects that align with local priorities, potentially unlocking funding faster than traditional Whitehall routes.

However, the dual structure of a powerful central department alongside regional mayors creates potential tensions. Investors should monitor how decisions are balanced between the two hubs.

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