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The Rural Services Network (RSN) is thrilled to announce the National Rural Conference 2024, taking place from 16th to 19th September. This virtual event, accessible via Zoom, is the premier gathering for senior officers, members, policymakers, and rural service professionals.
Further information and booking details can be found here
The government has unveiled a series of significant reforms aimed at accelerating housing development across the UK, addressing the pressing need for affordable homes and sustainable communities. Increased Housing Targets New, higher housing targets have been...
The below article was recently published in LOCALGOV, on the need for sustainable development in rural areas. It is reprinted in full below and can be accessed at this link. The recent extension of permitted development rights...
Every year, the first week of June marks an extraordinary period where we shine a light on the selfless individuals whose dedication helps to keep the heart of rural communities beating—our volunteers. As part of Volunteers Week , The...
Future Countryside 2024 takes place today. Hosted by prominent figures such as the Duke of Northumberland at Syon House and Nick Herbert, co-founder of Future Countryside, this event promises to bring together key voices in rural policy and development. ...
Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE) is urging politicians of all persuasions not to forget the needs and circumstances of people living and working in the countryside in the run up to the general election. The charity...
This past Bank Holiday weekend, while numerous families ventured to the serene landscapes of England's rural and coastal areas, it marked not just a period for relaxation but also a moment for reflection on the crucial role rural and coastal...
Considering recent findings from the research titled " The gainers and losers from the United Kingdom’s university-related migration: A subregional analysis of Graduate Outcomes Survey data " published by The Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI), there is an...
Last week our Chief Executive Kerry Booth was part of a group of key national rural organisations that meet with the DEFRA Minister Robbie Moore MP. Holding the post of Parliamentary Under Secretary of State and Minister for Water and...
In an era where digital communication has significantly reduced the volume of letters, yet the demand for parcel delivery continues to soar, Ofcom has initiated a discussion on the future of the United Kingdom's universal postal service. Recognising the changing...
Sparse Rural represents rural local authorities and is campaigning for Fairer Funding for Rural Areas. Rural Areas are currently unfairly underfunded in the Local Government Finance Settlement. The Final Local Government Finance Settlement was published on...
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Amid reduced public spending, fair resource allocation across regions is crucial. Despite a population larger than Greater London, rural areas receive significantly less funding for essential services, even though delivering these services in rural areas is more expensive.
Economic growth is widely acknowledged as essential for national wealth and prosperity and is a priority for political parties. Rural economies, employing millions and home to a higher proportion of small businesses, have potential for growth if barriers are removed.
Rural residents face distinct healthcare challenges, including limited access to transport, longer distances to medical facilities, an aging demographic, housing inadequacies, digital connectivity gaps, and difficulties recruiting health and care workers.
Rural communities are grappling with a severe affordable housing crisis, marked by high house prices, a lack of affordable housing, elevated living costs, and lower incomes, threatening their sustainability and vitality.
Transport is vital for the quality of life and economic health of rural areas, yet it faces challenges such as infrequent public bus services and less Government funding compared to urban regions.
Rural areas, encompassing a substantial portion of England's population and land, play a pivotal role in combating climate change and achieving the net zero target.
In an increasingly digital world, the lack of robust digital infrastructure in rural areas severely limits access to crucial services and stifles economic growth.
A future-focused vision for rural communities involves not just building the right homes in the right places but also ensuring thriving, sustainable communities.
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