Summary
The Great North, a coalition of Northern leaders, has issued an open letter to Prime Minister Andy Burnham calling for a devolution-first approach to governance. The letter argues that devolution has already transformed local leadership across the North, but a more fundamental shift is needed in the relationship between central government and the country's largest economic region.
Burnham, a founding member of The Great North during his time as Mayor of Greater Manchester, has made devolution central to his government agenda, including plans for a 'Number 10 North' to rebalance power and prosperity. Kim McGuinness, Chair of The Great North and North East Mayor, said the North should be recognised as a strategic partner in UK governance, with greater collective voice in national decision-making that reflects its economic weight and democratic leadership.
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Common questions
- What is this article about?
- Northern mayors including Andy Burnham have called on the Prime Minister's Government to devolve greater powers, investment and freedoms to drive regional growth. The Great North argues the North should be recognised as a strategic governance partner alongside the devolved nations.
- When was this published?
- This article was published on 21 July 2026.
- Who published this article?
- This article was published by Prolific North.