More than two thirds of new Civil Service roles created in Places for Growth locations
Over two-thirds of new Civil Service roles created under the Places for Growth programme have been placed outside London, exceeding targets and embedding senior leadership in regions to support local decision-making and economic growth.
The UK Civil Service is relocating roles closer to communities as part of the Places for Growth programme, with four in five civil servants now based outside London. This initiative aims to decentralise power from Westminster, ensuring decisions reflect local needs and priorities. The programme’s progress includes moving 24,621 roles outside London since launch, surpassing the 22,000 target three years ahead of schedule. This shift is designed to strengthen ties between government and local areas, fostering stronger partnerships and more responsive policy-making.
Senior Civil Service leadership is also being relocated, with 36.6% of UK-based senior officials now based outside London as of March 2026. This move is intended to embed leaders within regional communities, improving understanding of local challenges and opportunities. The programme supports the broader goal of creating a UK-wide Civil Service that reflects the diversity of the country it serves. By placing decision-makers closer to the communities affected, the government aims to ensure policies are better aligned with local realities and needs.
A new Civil Service Fast Stream pilot in Yorkshire and Humber was announced to provide career opportunities without requiring relocation to London. Additionally, high-performing civil servants will be seconded into mayoral offices to build local capacity and accelerate devolution. These measures are part of a wider effort to spread opportunity and talent across the country, ensuring the Civil Service operates as a modern, inclusive public service.
The creation of No.10 North symbolises the government’s commitment to decentralising power and unlocking growth. By bringing officials closer to the communities they serve, the initiative aims to drive investment, strengthen local ties, and establish a more responsive public service. The programme’s success is measured by its ability to embed leadership in regions, support local economies, and ensure national policies are informed by local perspectives.