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The Government has published the provisional local government finance settlement for 2026/27, outlining planned funding allocations for local authorities in England and launching a statutory consultation on its proposals. While the final figures are still subject to confirmation through this...
As we look to 2026, the context for rural services and local governance continues to evolve. Local government structures may shift. Strategic authorities may develop. Boundaries may change. But regardless of how governance is reshaped, one principle must remain firm:...
We are proud to share that Cllr Roger Phillips, Chair of the Rural Services Network, has been awarded an OBE in the New Year Honours List 2026 for services to the community of Herefordshire. The honour recognises nearly three decades...
The Rural Services Network (RSN) has received a formal response from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government following its letter raising concerns about the impact of Fair Funding Review 2.0 on rural local authorities. In November, RSN Chief...
In the days leading up to the parliamentary recess over Christmas, the Government set out a series of significant announcements on planning reform, housing delivery and infrastructure. Together, these measures include new legislation, proposed changes to national planning policy, and...
The Department for Transport has launched a new Connectivity Tool, designed to help policymakers, planners, researchers and communities better understand how well different places are connected by transport. The tool brings together transport and land-use data in an innovative way...
The Government has launched an open Call for Evidence to inform a major new Young People and Work report, commissioned in November 2025 and led by the Right Honourable Alan Milburn. The review will examine the sharp rise in the...
The Countryside Alliance recently hosted a parliamentary roundtable on rural digital connectivity, bringing together parliamentarians, policymakers and industry experts to explore how next-generation technology could help close the digital divide facing rural communities. Chaired by Lord Herbert, the discussion focused...
TUESDAY 6 JANUARY 2026 Oral Questions: Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero Questions focus on the Government’s approach to delivering a secure, affordable and decarbonised energy system. MPs are expected to probe progress on expanding National Grid...
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has indicated it is reviewing the scope, sequencing and frequency of some sub-national statistical outputs as part of a wider programme to prioritise its core national datasets. The work forms part of ongoing efforts...
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HOT TOPICS
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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