A new analysis has mapped the optimal locations for a proposed 'No 10 North' government hub, with Manchester and Leeds emerging as frontrunners. The study, conducted by the think tank Centre for Cities, evaluates factors such as transport links, economic impact, and existing government presence to determine the best site for a northern base of the Prime Minister's office.
Key Findings
The report identifies Manchester as the top candidate due to its strong transport connectivity, including high-speed rail links and an international airport, as well as its large and diverse economy. Leeds also scores highly, benefiting from its central location within the Northern Powerhouse region and its growing financial services sector. Other cities considered include Liverpool, Sheffield, and Newcastle, but they lag behind in terms of infrastructure and economic scale.
Criteria for Selection
The Centre for Cities used a weighted scoring system based on five criteria: transport connectivity, economic output, existing government presence, housing availability, and regional balance. Transport connectivity was given the highest weight, reflecting the need for easy access to London and other parts of the UK. Economic output measured the city's contribution to national GDP, while existing government presence considered the number of civil service jobs already located in the area.
Political Context
The proposal for a 'No 10 North' has been a key part of the government's levelling up agenda, aimed at decentralising power and boosting economic growth in the North of England. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has previously indicated support for the idea, stating that 'the centre of gravity of government needs to shift.' However, critics argue that such a move could be costly and may not deliver the promised benefits without significant investment in local infrastructure.
Expert Opinions
According to the report's lead author, Paul Swinney, 'Manchester offers the best combination of connectivity, economic strength, and existing government infrastructure to host a northern hub. But Leeds is a strong alternative, particularly if the focus is on financial services and regional balance.' He added that the final decision would depend on political priorities and the willingness to invest in the chosen location.
Next Steps
The government has yet to commit to a specific location, but the analysis provides a evidence-based framework for decision-making. A consultation with local leaders and businesses is expected in the coming months, with a final decision anticipated by the end of the year. The chosen city will likely see a boost in investment and job creation, as well as increased political influence in Westminster.
