The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has established a second hub in Leeds as part of a broader effort to decentralize government operations, but critics question the financial planning behind the move. Health Secretary Yvette Cooper announced the creation of DHSC North, intended to operate alongside Andy Burnham’s Number 10 North initiative, which is based in Greater Manchester. Both efforts are part of the government’s wider push to devolve power away from Whitehall to regional offices.

However, a recent freedom of information (FOI) request by Conservative lawmakers revealed that no cost estimates have been prepared for the establishment or expansion of DHSC North in Leeds. The department responded that it does not hold information regarding the anticipated expenses of augmenting its existing presence at Quarry House, where DHSC has maintained offices for some time.

Shadow Health Secretary Damian Hinds criticized the initiative, stating that Labour has launched a costly proposal without adequate financial planning. “If ministers want to be taken seriously, they have to do the hard work,” Hinds said. He added that without clear details on funding or how the new hub would improve patient care, the project risks being perceived as a “costly gimmick.” Hinds also emphasized Conservative support for measures that provide value for taxpayers but insisted such plans must be fully funded.

In response, a spokesperson for Labour noted that, unlike the previous Conservative administration which reportedly spent £1.6 million on office furnishings in its last two years in government, the DHSC North hub was created to bring decision-makers closer to local communities without incurring additional taxpayer costs. The spokesperson also said the new office avoids “wasteful” redesigns and aligns with the government’s devolution agenda.

The establishment of DHSC North follows Health Secretary Cooper’s directive in July for officials to develop plans for the new hub. According to a source familiar with the matter, the intention is to enhance decision-making in northern England and strengthen the department’s ability to improve health outcomes across the country. The initiative is reportedly designed to complement Number 10 North, which has also faced criticism from opponents who describe it as a symbolic move with unclear benefits and questionable expenses.

Both initiatives reflect ongoing debates about the effectiveness and fiscal responsibility of efforts to decentralize government functions in England, particularly in northern regions seeking greater political and administrative autonomy. Proponents argue that relocating government offices closer to the communities they serve can improve responsiveness and local engagement, while critics remain concerned about the lack of thorough cost analysis and tangible outcomes.