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.
24 Aug 2026
Defra Minister to Open RSN Rural Conference Economy Session
We are delighted to announce that Jenny Riddell-Carpenter MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at Defra, will open the Rural Economy session at the Rural Services Network’s National Rural Conference 2026....
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24 Aug 2026
Rethinking Business Rates For Pubs And Hotels
The Treasury has launched an independent review into how business rates are calculated for pubs and hotels in England and Wales. Business rates for these properties are usually based on...
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17 Aug 2026
Homelessness Figures Highlight Rural Data Gaps
Record numbers of households and children are living in temporary accommodation across England, but the published figures may not reveal the full extent or impact of homelessness in rural communities....
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17 Aug 2026
£65 Million Drought Package Announced for England’s Farmers
Farmers in England are to receive £65 million in new drought support following the driest July on record in England and Wales. The Government has announced the package designed to...
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17 Aug 2026
National Rural Crime Action Week 2026: Make Rural Voices Heard
National Rural Crime Action Week 2026 takes place in September, bringing organisations and communities together to ensure rural experiences and priorities are reflected in the future of policing. Taking place...
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10 Aug 2026
Food Poverty Highest Among Households With Children Under Five
New analysis from the Early Years Observatory highlights the scale of food poverty among families with young children, with almost a quarter (24%) of households in England with a child...
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10 Aug 2026
Rural Digital Connectivity Gap Remains
New figures from Defra show that while digital connectivity continues to improve, gaps remain between rural and urban areas, particularly for gigabit broadband and 5G mobile coverage. The latest Statistical...
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05 Aug 2026
New Devolution Plans Promise Greater Local Powers And Funding
The Government has announced a major new package of devolution reforms aimed at giving local leaders greater control over investment, public services and economic growth across England. Under plans unveiled...
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05 Aug 2026
Housing Concerns Raised Over Local Government Reorganisation
A new report from the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) has highlighted growing concern among housing professionals that local government reorganisation (LGR) could disrupt housing services and weaken the focus...
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01 Aug 2026
Rural Economy and Regeneration: Supporting Growth in Rural Communities
Monday 14 September 2026 | 1:30pm–3:30pm | Online How can rural businesses, communities and local economies be supported to innovate, grow and thrive? And how can policy and investment respond...
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