The election of Andy Burnham as Prime Minister marks an important moment in British politics. More significantly, it signals a different approach to government – one that puts place before politics and focuses on practical solutions rather than political point-scoring. People before politics is a founding principle of our Liberal Democrat administration in Wokingham Borough
During his leadership of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham championed a philosophy rooted in local leadership, partnership and accountability. The model that became known as “Manchesterism” demonstrated what can be achieved when communities are trusted to shape their own future and when decisions are made closer to the people they affect.
As someone who has spent nearly fifty years running businesses in Wokingham Borough and now serves as the Liberal Democrat lead member for economic development, I recognise many of those same principles here in our borough. I call it “Wokinghamism”.
Wokinghamism is not a slogan. It is a practical way of working. It means listening to residents, supporting local businesses, bringing partners together and making decisions that improve everyday life. It means recognising that economic growth, strong communities and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.
Wokingham Borough has much to be proud of. We are home to a highly skilled workforce, ambitious businesses, excellent schools, thriving community organisations and some of the finest countryside in the Southeast. Our cultural, sporting and leisure assets play a vital role in creating healthy, connected and resilient communities.
At the same time, we face many of the challenges seen across the country. Housing affordability remains a concern for young people and families. Infrastructure must keep pace with growth. Transport congestion affects both residents and businesses. Local government finances remain under pressure, while climate resilience and community wellbeing are increasingly important priorities.
These challenges cannot be solved from Whitehall alone.
That is why a place-first approach matters. Local councils understand their communities, their economies and their aspirations. When trusted with the right powers and resources, they can deliver solutions that reflect local needs and achieve better outcomes.
The success of Greater Manchester shows what can happen when power is rooted in place. But those lessons should extend beyond major city regions. Boroughs like Wokingham, along with towns, villages and rural communities across the country, also have a vital role to play in shaping Britain’s future.
We need a stronger partnership between national and local government, based on shared goals rather than short-term bidding rounds. We need long-term investment in infrastructure, transport, housing and the cultural and leisure facilities that help communities thrive.
Manchesterism has demonstrated what is possible when communities are empowered. Wokinghamism reflects the same belief: that lasting success comes when local people help shape local decisions.
If the new Prime Minister is serious about putting place before politics, we Wokingham Borough Liberal Democrats stand ready to play our part.
By Councillor Mark Ashwell, Executive Member for Economic Development, Sport, Leisure, Countryside and the Arts
