Story perspectives

Burnham Launches No 10 North Hub, Promises Massive Council Housing

7/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Andy Burnham announced a No 10 North office in Manchester to steer devolution.
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said the agenda needs deeper cultural change in Whitehall.
Burnham pledged a “good growth” plan that includes the largest post-war council-housing programme.
The plan also reforms business rates for pubs and high streets.
He appointed Caroline Simpson as deputy chief of staff to run hub and reaffirmed fiscal rules while promising cost-of-living support.

History

Historical Context

After WWII, Labour Prime Minister Clement Attlee launched a council-housing drive, backed by the 1949 Housing Act that provided local authorities with 75 % Exchequer grants to build mixed estates. The Ministry of Housing coordinated construction in Manchester, Birmingham and Glasgow, and today Andy Burnham’s No 10 North office in Manchester echoes that historic regional commitment.

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Story summary

Andy Burnham announced a No 10 North office in Manchester to steer devolution.
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said the agenda needs deeper cultural change in Whitehall.
Burnham pledged a “good growth” plan that includes the largest post-war council-housing programme.
The plan also reforms business rates for pubs and high streets.
He appointed Caroline Simpson as deputy chief of staff to run hub and reaffirmed fiscal rules while promising cost-of-living support.

1 / 2