Mancunians flocked outside Heron House, the new No10 North residence, to welcome Prime Minister Andy Burnham. Tom Drinkwater, a 36-year-old senior video editor from Didsbury, expressed his excitement about seeing Burnham, praising him as a Mancunian legend and a great mayor for Manchester.
Despite a strong police presence, individuals gathered to take selfies with the impressive building. Heron House, located centrally in Manchester with access to Albert and Lincoln squares, boasts top-notch security features, including advanced security integrated into its glass walls and only 25% of it being above ground.
The interior of Heron House resembles a cozy coffee shop in the trendy Northern Quarter of Manchester, featuring plywood paneling and stylish grey sofas. Dr. Andrew Chimenya, a senior lecturer at the University of Greater Manchester, lauded the new headquarters for its central location and vibrant surroundings, highlighting the excitement among North West residents to have Burnham as a representative for the entire country.
Jack Leonard, a politics student from Denton, expressed optimism about Burnham’s potential to empower the North and distribute power across the country, emphasizing the significance of this moment for the region. The crowd outside Heron House resembled enthusiastic fans awaiting a rock star rather than constituents supporting their new Prime Minister.
While the Cabinet deliberated indoors, trendy individuals enjoyed happy hour cocktails at the lively Slug and Lettuce nearby. A Greggs bakery just steps away offers a convenient dining option for Burnham and his team.
Local teenager Iris Burkitt, accompanied by her family, voiced her joy at having a Northern representative in power, while teacher Rosa Ahern highlighted the symbolic importance of moving governmental focus away from London to address national issues effectively. This shift signifies a significant change in people’s perception of the government and its engagement with regions beyond the capital.