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, mentioning Burnham alongside Liam Gallagher and Noel Gallagher as iconic figures.
Despite a strong police presence, people gathered to take selfies with the impressive building, which is located in the heart of Manchester, boasting entrances onto Albert and Lincoln squares. Known for its security features, including state-of-the-art measures integrated into its glass walls, Heron House is also rumored to have only 25% of its structure above ground.
Inside the building, the ambiance resembles a trendy coffee shop in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, featuring plywood paneling and chic grey sofas. Dr. Andrew Chimenya, a senior lecturer at the University of Greater Manchester, praised the central location of the new headquarters, emphasizing its significance for the entire country.
Jack Leonard, a politics student from Denton, highlighted the potential for Burnham to redistribute power across the nation, describing the moment as exciting for the North. The scene outside Heron House was likened to fans waiting for a rock star rather than constituents supporting their new PM.
Amidst Cabinet discussions indoors, stylish locals enjoyed cocktails at a nearby bar, while a Greggs bakery stood just steps away for quick bites. Local teenager Iris Burkitt and teacher Rosa Ahern expressed their enthusiasm for having a leader from the north in a position of power, stating the importance of decentralizing government operations from London to better represent and engage with the entire country.
