Will Metro Mayors Deliver for the Countryside?

On Thursday 1 May 2025, voters in parts of England will head to the polls to elect metro mayors for several combined authority areas. These roles come with strategic powers over transport, housing, skills, and economic growth — issues that matter to both urban and rural communities.

With new mayoralties being introduced in Greater Lincolnshire and Hull & East Yorkshire, and elections also taking place in the West of England and Cambridgeshire & Peterborough, rural areas across these regions will be part of this evolving local leadership landscape.

The RSN recognises this as an important moment for rural residents and communities to reflect on how regional leadership can support the specific needs of the countryside.

While city-focused policy often dominates the headlines, rural areas face distinct challenges that risk being overlooked unless proactively raised. The RSN is calling on mayoral candidates to consider the countryside not as an afterthought, but as a vital part of their economic and social landscape.

Key questions for candidates:

How will you ensure rural communities are fairly represented in decision-making?
Rural voices can be drowned out in combined authorities dominated by large urban centres. What mechanisms will you put in place to ensure rural concerns are heard?

What is your plan to improve rural transport connectivity?
Cuts to bus services and a lack of alternatives continue to isolate rural residents. Will you champion investment in rural transport as a priority, not a footnote?

How will you address the rural housing crisis?
Affordable homes in rural areas are in short supply, while prices are often driven up by second homes and holiday lets. What policies will you introduce to support sustainable rural housing?

What role will rural economies play in your growth strategy?
Rural businesses — from engineering to farming and tourism and beyond — are key to regional prosperity. How will you support rural enterprise and unlock the potential of the countryside?

Will you support digital connectivity for all?
Many rural areas still lack reliable broadband and mobile coverage. What will you do to close the digital divide?

Why This Matters

The metro mayors elected in May will wield serious influence — not just over budgets and strategies, but over the everyday lives of millions. For rural communities, this is a crucial opportunity to be heard. The RSN is urging rural residents to ask the right questions, challenge their candidates, and ensure rural priorities are front and centre in this new era of devolution.

After all, a thriving region needs a thriving countryside.