Andy Burnham, the newly elected Member of Parliament for Makerfield, outlined a vision to decentralize power from Westminster and drive regional economic recovery during a speech in Manchester on Monday. Framing his approach as a “circuit-breaker” to revive the UK’s economy, Burnham emphasized a politics focused on place and problem-solving rather than party allegiance.
Burnham’s agenda includes transferring capital budgets to regional mayoralties, aiming to replicate Manchester’s economic gains across broader parts of the country. Highlighting the UK’s comparatively low level of regional tax autonomy—less than 5 percent of total tax revenue raised regionally in 2023 versus 24 percent in Spain, 14 percent in France, and around one-third in Germany—he called for reforms to empower local government control over infrastructure projects and public services. Burnham specifically cited initiatives such as Crossrail 2 and a proposed Leeds metro, suggesting these should be locally planned and operated rather than controlled centrally.
The Labour politician’s proposals align in some respects with existing “levelling-up” policies pursued under both the current government and opposition leader Keir Starmer, signaling a shared focus on reducing the economic disparity between London and other regions. Analysts note that if areas outside London could close just half the productivity gap with the capital, the nation’s economy could expand by at least 4 percent, underscoring the potential impact of regional empowerment.
Burnham also intends to take greater public control over essential services including water, housing, energy, and transport. Addressing the housing crisis, which he described as having a “ruinous impact” on public finances, he committed to overseeing the largest council house building programme in the UK since the post-war era. The proposed 10-year scheme is inspired by Finland’s “Housing First” strategy, credited with reversing homelessness there, and would focus on expanding social rent housing. However, some housing industry sources caution that increasing investment in social rent units—more costly to develop than other types—could reduce the overall number of homes built unless additional funding is secured.
Despite its potential benefits, Burnham’s devolution push carries political risks. Critics warn that creating strong regional authorities could exacerbate local inequalities, with some areas feeling excluded or overshadowed by more prosperous cities like Manchester. Regions without elected mayors may also express concerns over perceived imbalances in influence and resources.
As Burnham’s plans begin to take shape, the balance between regional empowerment, equitable development, and maintaining national cohesion will remain a key focus for policymakers and stakeholders across the UK.