Mancunians flocked outside Heron House, the new No10 North residence, to welcome the arrival of Prime Minister Andy Burnham. Among the crowd was Tom Drinkwater, a 36-year-old senior video editor from Didsbury, who praised Burnham as a Mancunian legend and an exceptional mayor for Manchester.
Heron House, situated at the heart of Manchester with access to Albert and Lincoln squares, holds a significant historical connection as the former site of the Hacienda club where Burnham frequented in his youth. Known for its high-security features, including state-of-the-art security integrated into its glass walls, Heron House is considered one of the most secure locations in the country.
Inside, the building boasts a modern interior resembling a coffee shop in Manchester’s trendy Northern Quarter, complete with plywood paneling and stylish grey sofas. Dr. Andrew Chimenya, a senior lecturer at the University of Greater Manchester, expressed excitement about the central location of the new headquarters, emphasizing its accessibility to shops, cafes, and bars.
Jack Leonard, a politics student, highlighted the significance of Burnham’s potential to redistribute power across the country, especially benefiting the North. The atmosphere outside Heron House mirrored that of fans eagerly awaiting a rock star, rather than traditional political supporters.
While the Cabinet deliberated on policies indoors, local establishments like the Slug and Lettuce offered a vibrant ambiance for residents and visitors alike. The presence of a nearby Greggs provided convenient dining options for Mr. Burnham and his team.
The community, represented by individuals like teenager Iris Burkitt and teacher Rosa Ahern, celebrated the shift of power from London to the North, viewing it as a symbolic and practical move to address longstanding issues of regional disparity in governance and representation.