On 30 September 2026, the UK Information Commissioner’s Office underwent an important governance reform under the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025. The regulator formally transitioned from the Information Commissioner’s Office to the Information Commission, introducing a new board-led governance structure while maintaining its existing regulatory powers, functions and responsibilities.
The reform is intended to modernise the regulator’s governance arrangements, with seven Non-Executive Members joining the newly established Information Commission Board. Notably, the regulator has confirmed that it will continue to be known publicly as the “ICO”, helping to ensure continuity for organisations and stakeholders.
The governance changes do not alter the ICO’s core role as the UK’s data protection regulator and organisations should not expect any immediate changes to existing compliance obligations. However, the reforms may signal a continued focus on strategic oversight and regulatory effectiveness as the UK’s data protection framework evolves.
ICO head office relocation
Separately, the ICO has relocated its head office from Wilmslow to Manchester city centre. Since 28 September 2026, its new address has been:
ICO Head Office
4th Floor, No. 3 Circle Square
5 Hawkshaw Street
Manchester M1 7BL
Organisations should review their privacy notices, regulatory contact information and internal governance documents to determine whether they contain references to the ICO’s previous Wilmslow address and, if so, update them accordingly.
