9 Downing Street

9 Downing Street stands in the City of Westminster, a short walk from Parliament Square. The building forms part of the Downing Street group that has served British government since the 18th century. Originally joined to Number 10, it was separated in 2001 when the address was created. The structure has housed several important offices over the years. The Judicial Committee of the Privy Council once worked here until 2009. Later it became home to the Chief Whip’s operation and, from 2016 to 2020, the Department for Exiting the European Union. The building gained wider attention when government press briefings moved here in January 2020. A £2.6-million refurbishment followed, turning the interior into a modern press centre. The first televised conferences took place in March 2021 under Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Journalists criticised the change from the traditional Commons briefing room. The move marked a shift in how political communication is organised in London. The address remains linked to key moments in recent British politics. Inside, the refurbished rooms now contain the Downing Street Press Briefing Room. The space is designed for live broadcasts and daily media updates. The building’s exterior keeps the familiar Downing Street appearance. Visitors cannot enter, but the façade is a recognised landmark. The address continues to play a central role in national political life. Its history reflects the evolving needs of British government.