Future of Rural Areas
The RSN is challenging often overlooked rural threats such as chronic underfunding, changes in population and diminishing resources.
15 May 2017
Mobile not-spots ‘hobble’ rural areas
RURAL areas across the UK are being ‘hobbled’ by poor mobile phone reception, says a survey. Full or partial mobile signal ‘not-spots’ affects 70% of firms, according to the study...
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09 May 2017
Rural landlords demand energy review
Rural landlords say the government must clarify its plans to review energy efficiency rules for rented homes. The Country Land and Business Association – whose members provide 40% of all...
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07 May 2017
How to tackle rural financial exclusion
With many local bank branches disappearing and a growing emphasis on digital services, what can be done to tackle financial exclusion in rural places? Jessica Sellick investigates. Many people in...
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04 May 2017
Rural students ‘have Oxbridge potential’
A PILOT scheme aims to encourage more rural students to study at top universities. Oxford University will pilot a summer school this year to help maximise engagement with students from...
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28 Apr 2017
‘Action needed now on rural housing’
Urgent action is needed to provide more affordable homes in the countryside, says the Rural Services Network. The network issued the warning in response to a report by MPs which...
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28 Apr 2017
Reaction to ‘Housing – State of the Nation’ report
PRESS RELEASEFor immediate release Friday 28 April 2017 RSN chief executive Graham Biggs said: “Housing is consistently rated as one of the top challenges facing rural communities across the country....
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27 Apr 2017
Call for rural productivity evidence
Rural businesses and communities are being asked to help explore issues around rural productivity and growth in south-west England. The South West Rural Productivity Commission has been established as a...
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26 Apr 2017
‘Digital tax’ proposal ditched – for now
Rural businesses have welcomed a government decision to drop its Making Tax Digital plan from the Finance Bill. The plan would have required businesses to submit tax information online rather than...
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20 Apr 2017
Don’t punish diesel drivers – rural MP
The government must not punish motorists who drive diesel vehicles, a prominent rural MP has warned. Diesel vehicles emit far higher levels of nitrogen oxides than petrol vehicles – prompting...
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19 Apr 2017
‘Missed chance’ to tackle fly-tipping
Government plans to tackle the scourge of fly-tipping are a missed opportunity, rural leaders have warned. Published earlier this month, the government’s Litter Strategy for England intends to curb illegal...
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