The opportunities presented by regional devolution and the Government’s emerging programme of work to further recognise and unlock the potential in the North East rural economy were spotlighted at an event earlier this month.

Regional stakeholders at the National Innovation Centre for Rural Enterprise’s (NICRE) event in Newcastle acknowledged the vital role of the rural economy to achieving the national mission for growth and renewal, and for fully maximising the opportunity of devolution and new North East Combined Authority.

Key figures from policy, business and community and voluntary sectors, alongside those from Government departments, also highlighted prospects for rural areas from transitions to net zero and greener energy, and in agriculture and land-use.

This was against the backdrop of NICRE detailing the implications of its evidence of how rural enterprises are adapting and innovating and work with partners to catalyse rural innovation in communities.

NICRE director Jeremy Phillipson, Professor of Rural Development at one of its founding academic partners the Centre for Rural Economy at Newcastle University, said:

“This is a time of great opportunity for the rural economy in the North East and we must grasp it with both hands.

“While the deep-rooted challenges facing rural areas are not to be underestimated, the emerging work of the combined authority and the new Government offers renewed scope for business growth and community prosperity.

“As a region, it’s more important than ever that we continue to work together to be in a best possible position to realise these opportunities, and those presented by wider shifts in business and the environment, to further unlock the potential in the rural economy.”

The opportunities from devolution for rural businesses were also highlighted by Helen Stanton, of Corbridge’s FORUM Books and Alnwick’s The Accidental Bookshop, and Duncan Peake, from Raby Estates in Country Durham, at the event.

These rural business insights, alongside those from Breamish Valley Cottages, Bamburgh Castle Inn and Particularly Good Potatoes, complemented NICRE’s State of Rural Enterprise findings into the impact of rising costs and staffing and skills availability, alongside opportunities for business growth.

At ‘The State of Rural Enterprise: Adapting and Innovating through Change’ at the Catalyst, chaired by Lord Curry of Kirkharle, NICRE showcased rural innovation in practice featuring projects related to community energy, community engagement, digital inclusion and health and climathons across the North East.

Download the presentation slides, watch the videos and see more photographs from the event.