England's North-South Divide: Burnham's Devolution Challenge 2026

England's north-south divide has widened dramatically, with a new Lancet study revealing that the mortality gap for adults aged 25-49 more than tripled between 1981 and 2024. Andy Burnham's call to abandon "40 years of neoliberalism" gains traction as the data shows death rates in the north were 42% higher than in the south by 2024, up from 13% in 1981.

What the Lancet Study Reveals About England's North-South Divide

The study found that for adults aged 25 to 49, death rates in the north were 13% higher than in the south in 1981. By 2024, that gap had surged to 42%. Among people under 75, mortality in northern England was 26% higher than in the south.

These figures underscore the human cost of regional inequality. They also highlight the urgent need for policies that address the root causes of poor health in the north.

Why the Gap Widened: Deindustrialisation and Austerity

The answer lies in the lives and jobs that people have, the homes they can afford, and the state of public services like the NHS. Deindustrialisation stripped secure employment from many communities in the north, as it did in Scotland and Wales. Austerity then weakened support systems.

These factors have left the north with substantial levels of deprivation, lower rates of pay, and fewer healthy years of life. The study's findings add weight to Burnham's argument that Britain's economic model and concentration of power in London have failed its regions.

Andy Burnham's Devolution Pledge: A Solution?

Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, has pledged to tackle these inequalities through devolution. He argues that giving more power and resources to local leaders can help close the gap. But delivering on this promise is easier said than done.

Devolution deals have been criticized for lacking sufficient funding and for not going far enough in transferring powers. Moreover, the scale of the challenge is immense, requiring coordinated action across multiple policy areas.

What the Budget Must Do to Close the Gap

To close these gaps means helping poorer households with the rising cost of essentials and sending more resources to deprived areas. The budget must address these immediate needs while also investing in long-term solutions.

• Boost local economies by investing in infrastructure and skills.
• Strengthen public services like the NHS and social care.
• Increase affordable housing to reduce financial strain.
• Provide targeted support for low-income households.
• Empower local leaders with real devolution of powers and funding.

Key Statistics on England's North-South Divide

The Political Fallout and What to Watch

Burnham's rhetoric has fueled debate about London-centric policymaking. Critics argue that devolution alone won't solve deep-seated problems without substantial funding. Supporters say it's a necessary first step.

As the budget approaches, all eyes are on whether the government will commit to closing the gap. The Lancet study provides compelling evidence that action is needed now.

The debate over devolution and regional inequality is far from over. For a deeper look at the political rhetoric, see our analysis of whether Andy Burnham really hates London.

Health inequalities are a key part of the story. Recent data shows England's north-south life expectancy gap widening in 2025, reinforcing the need for urgent action.

Another study found the gap widening despite record investment, suggesting that funding alone isn't enough. The north-south life expectancy gap continues to grow, and without targeted interventions, it will persist.

Burnham's devolution plans face significant hurdles. As we discuss in why Burnham's devolution pledge is tough to deliver, the barriers are both political and practical. A related analysis explains why it's tricky to deliver on these ambitious promises.