Future of Rural Areas

The RSN is challenging often overlooked rural threats such as chronic underfunding, changes in population and diminishing resources.

Hot Topics

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...

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07 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...

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06 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...

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05 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...

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28 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...

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28 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...

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27 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...

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18 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...

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13 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...

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09 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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