Rural Economies

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.

Hot Topics

06 Jul 2026

Rural Housing Week Focuses On Affordable Homes

As part of National Rural Housing Week, the National Housing Federation is highlighting the growing need for affordable housing across rural England and the vital role it plays in sustaining...

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06 Jul 2026

Green Book Reforms To Boost Regional Investment

The Government has announced further reforms to the Treasury‘s Green Book, aiming to ensure investment decisions better reflect the needs and opportunities of communities across the UK. The Green Book...

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06 Jul 2026

A Rural Touring Story

The last time the infrastructure of rural touring was researched was before the pandemic and a lot has changed since then. The University of Warwick’s Vishalakshi Roy and Melanie Stavrou...

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30 Jun 2026

A 25-Year Farming Roadmap For England

The Government has published a new 25-year Farming Roadmap, setting out its long-term vision for English agriculture to 2050 alongside its formal response to the independent Farming Profitability Review led...

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30 Jun 2026

Electricity Supply Expected To Remain Secure This Winter

Great Britain is expected to have enough electricity to meet demand this winter, according to an early assessment published by the National Energy System Operator (NESO).

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23 Jun 2026

Can Devolution Deliver More Affordable Homes In Rural Areas?

As England's devolution agenda continues to reshape local government, questions are being asked about what the changes could mean for rural communities and the delivery of affordable housing.

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23 Jun 2026

Rural Women Entrepreneurs Call For Greater Business Support

A new report from the National Innovation Centre for Rural Enterprise (NICRE) and the North Pennines National Landscape has highlighted the support needs of women-led businesses across the North Pennines,...

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23 Jun 2026

Rural Banking Access Raised In Lords

Access to face-to-face banking services was discussed in the House of Lords last week, with peers highlighting the importance of maintaining access for rural, coastal and vulnerable communities.

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Rural Economy Spotlight – June 2026
Members only

12 Jun 2026

Rural Economy Spotlight – June 2026

A quarterly bulletin facilitated by your membership of the Rural Services Network highlighting a selection of current rural economic development news, issues and opportunities

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02 Jun 2026

New Report Calls for Stronger Action on Fly-Tipping and Waste Crime

A new report from the National Rural Crime Network (NRCN) and Future Countryside has warned that fly-tipping and wider waste crime have reached

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