Future of Rural Areas
The RSN is challenging often overlooked rural threats such as chronic underfunding, changes in population and diminishing resources.
12 Mar 2018
Group to energise rural communities
A new electric vehicle charging social enterprise has started up in Cumbria to address the chronic shortage of charging points in rural towns and villages. Charge my Street is aiming...
Read more07 Mar 2018
Planning review must be implemented in way that creates more affordable rural homes
PRESS RELEASEFor immediate release Wednesday, 7 March 2018 Rural Services Network [1] assistant director Andy Dean has commented on the launch of a government consultation on proposals for a major...
Read more06 Mar 2018
Review must create rural homes
The Rural Services Network has welcomed proposals for a major overhaul of national planning policy. A consultation on a draft National Planning Policy Framework was launched by the government on...
Read more05 Mar 2018
Major reform of planning unveiled
A major overhaul of planning rules will “deliver the homes the country needs,” says the government. The review of the National Planning Policy Framework was launched on Monday (5 March). The government...
Read more28 Feb 2018
‘Loophole scuppers affordable homes’
House builders are exploiting a legal loophole so they don’t have to build as many affordable homes in the countryside, claim campaigners. Homeless charity Shelter and the Campaign to Protect...
Read more28 Feb 2018
Plan to phase out farm payments
A new system of payments aims to improve the rural environment and delivery of public goods. The government has unveiled plans to abolish farm subsidies in England and replace them...
Read more27 Feb 2018
Call to fill rural banking ‘black hole’
An MP has introduced a private members bill to ensure rural communities aren’t left without financial services when bank branches close. Ceredigion MP Ben Lake said he wanted to make...
Read more18 Feb 2018
Church spires to boost broadband
Church spires across the UK will be used to boost digital connectivity and broadband speeds in rural areas. The decision follows an agreement between the government and the Church of...
Read more13 Feb 2018
Initiative to safeguard vulnerable people
An important initiative to help safeguard vulnerable people is taking place in north-west England. Electricity North West – the company distributing electricity across Cumbria and Lancashire; and United Utilities, the water...
Read more09 Feb 2018
Vital boost for community-led homes
Support for much-needed rural community housing has received a vital boost in Ryedale, North Yorkshire. It will see Community First Yorkshire work with Ryedale District Council to tackle the challenge...
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