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The Chancellor's Autumn Budget 2024 presents a critical juncture for rural communities across the UK. As we pore over the details in the comprehensive budget document, the Rural Services Network (RSN) acknowledges the government's efforts to address broad...
The government has released Invest 2035, a new industrial strategy aimed at establishing long-term economic growth across the UK. This green paper outlines key areas of investment in skills, infrastructure, digital innovation, finance, and stability in policy, with...
Last week, along with hundreds of Local Authority senior Members and Officers, our Chief Executive Kerry Booth and Assistant Chief Executive Nadine Trout journeyed to Harrogate for the Local Government Association Conference in the home of North Yorkshire Council. ...
A report from the House of Lords Library, titled "Rural Communities: Issues and Support," sheds light on various challenges these communities face and the supportive measures needed to address them. This report has been prepared in advance of today’s House...
Recently, The Deputy Prime Minister addressed the first meeting of the New Towns Taskforce , asking them to identify and recommend locations for new towns within the next year. Building on the appointments of Sir Michael Lyons as Chair...
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...
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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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