Thousands of civil servants are set to leave London as part of a sweeping government reform plan. Ministers intend to move 12,000 jobs out of the capital by 2032. The decision includes shutting down 11 government offices across London.
The strategy focuses on reducing costs and decentralizing government functions across the UK. Officials believe shifting operations will bring decision-making closer to local communities. Cabinet Office Minister Pat McFadden said the changes would reflect the nation more accurately.
Two new government campuses will open in Manchester and Aberdeen. Manchester will serve as a center for digital innovation and artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, Aberdeen will focus on energy and host the Great British Energy headquarters.
Thousands of civil servants will also relocate to regional cities across the UK. These cities include Birmingham, Leeds, Cardiff, Glasgow, Darlington, Newcastle, Sheffield, Bristol, Edinburgh, Belfast, Tyneside, and York. Government sources estimate the reforms could add £729 million to local economies by 2030.
Among the major closures is 102 Petty France in Westminster. This site currently houses about 7,000 civil servants from justice-related agencies. The Department of Health and Social Care will also leave its base at 39 Victoria Street.
The Labour government has pledged broader civil service reforms. Chancellor Rachel Reeves has committed to reducing overall government operating costs by 15 percent by the end of the decade. Additionally, the Cabinet Office plans to cut 2,100 roles over the next two years.
Final decisions on which departments will relocate depend on the upcoming spending review. The government will complete this review by June.
Union leaders responded with cautious support. Prospect union chief Mike Clancy urged the government to engage directly with workers and unions. He warned that success depends on careful planning and communication.
FDA union head Dave Penman voiced concerns about long-term job security. He emphasized the need for consistent career opportunities in both regional areas and London.
Thousands of civil servants now face major changes to their roles and office locations. The government says these reforms will modernize the civil service. Critics argue they may simply shift problems without real solutions.
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