A modern architectural view of Manchester's city center, illustrating the regional growth driving the Good Growth Fund's expansion.
LONDON · May 11, 2026 : Mayor Andy Burnham recently presented "Manchesterism," a model prioritizing local capacity over centralized oversight. The GM Good Growth Fund, which surged from £1 billion to £2 billion in four months, serves as evidence. For London, the message is clear: the city is challenging the assumption that Westminster is better equipped to solve regional problems.
Capacity and Fiscal Power
The Good Growth Fund’s expansion highlights a shift in fiscal power. By building internal capacity, Manchester has proven it can deploy capital more efficiently than national departments. This "Manchesterism" relies on the logic that cities feel economic pressures first and respond with precision. When given tools to govern, local results outpace centralized expectations.
Accountability for Results
The argument is about accountability, not sovereignty. While the central government retains broad fiscal power, Manchester demonstrates that the city-region is the superior vehicle for delivery. This moves focus from command-and-control to a model where the city delivers results the center often fails to achieve.
A Devolution Blueprint
The fund's success suggests effective governance is a matter of proximity. If a city can double its growth fund through local management, Westminster-led distribution faces a challenge. Manchester is not arguing against London; it is arguing for the efficiency of the local over the distance of the center.
Source: Greater Manchester Combined Authority / Centre for Cities / Invest in Manchester / Bloomberg CityLab : 2025–2026
Tags: Manchester / Andy Burnham / Good Growth Fund / Devolution / Manchesterism / City Governance / bcdW Current Today : May 11, 2026
