Taxpayer bill for Burnham’s No 10 North security and staffing

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, July 16, 2026

Senior Whitehall officials estimate that establishing the No 10 North office in Manchester under Andy Burnham could cost tens of millions of pounds due to security and staffing needs. The new government site aims to shift some prime ministerial functions away from London, but concerns remain about recruiting staff willing to split their time between the two cities and the delayed availability of the preferred office building.

The UK government faces significant costs to establish the planned No 10 North office in Manchester under incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham, according to senior Whitehall officials. Estimates suggest that security measures and staffing for the new government site could run into tens of millions of pounds.

Burnham’s proposal to move parts of the prime minister’s office and some decision-making functions from London to Manchester was a central element of his campaign to become Labour leader, emphasizing a “place before party” approach to devolution. The new office is expected to involve close coordination with various government departments, including education, business, environment, technology, and energy.

Permanent secretaries are reportedly drawing up shortlists of civil servants who may be assigned to help establish the operation at No 10 North. However, officials have raised concerns about recruiting sufficient talent willing to split their time between the capital and the northern hub. One Whitehall source indicated there will be “considerable staff movement between London and Manchester in the short term,” with some civil servants expected to travel frequently to support the office’s rollout. Attracting top personnel could prove difficult without Burnham spending significant time at the new location; he has indicated plans to work there at least one day per week.

The preferred site for No 10 North is the Manchester Digital Campus in Ancoats, a government-led development. However, as the building is not scheduled for completion until the 2030s, alternative arrangements are being made to expedite the office's establishment. A GCHQ facility has reportedly been identified as a temporary base.

Security requirements are a notable factor driving up costs, including potential expenses relating to Burnham’s personal protection at his residence in Wigan. These financial considerations have been shared with Dame Antonia Romeo, the cabinet secretary, ahead of further discussions.

Uncertainty remains around Burnham’s personal living arrangements; his wife, Marie-France van Heel, is reportedly considering remaining in Manchester to continue her marketing executive role.

The Cabinet Office has declined to comment on any plans regarding the incoming prime minister’s government arrangements.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.