A comprehensive report, 'The Future of Rural England', has been released, outlining a new governmental approach aimed at empowering rural communities across the country. Published by the Rural Taskforce, the document highlights six core areas deemed essential for fostering prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable rural environments: economic growth and productivity; infrastructure and housing; skills and education; health and wellbeing; safety and community resilience; and connectivity.
The report underscores the significant economic contribution of rural England, which currently generates over £259 billion for the national economy and supports more than half a million small and medium-sized businesses in sectors ranging from manufacturing to renewable energy. Despite this, these areas have long grappled with distinct challenges, including inadequate transport links, digital connectivity issues, hidden health inequalities, and a scarcity of affordable housing. The new strategy seeks to overcome these obstacles by placing rural communities at the forefront of policy development.
A key recommendation is the establishment of a new cross-government board, tasked with ensuring that rural considerations are central to major policy decisions. This initiative aims to foster a more proactive and integrated approach across government departments, with annual public reporting on progress to enhance accountability. This marks a significant shift towards systematically assessing the real-world impacts of policies and investments on the 9.7 million individuals who reside in rural England.
Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds stated that she is leading this cross-government effort to ensure rural voices are not an afterthought but actively shape policy. Joe Evans, Deputy President of the CLA, welcomed the report, particularly its focus on embedding 'rural proofing' across government. He stressed that a collaborative approach is vital to unlock the full potential of the rural economy, urging the government to translate recommendations into action, particularly in delivering affordable housing, improving digital connectivity, and reforming planning systems.
Corinne Pluchino, Chief Executive of Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE), also expressed support for the report, commending its clear actions and commitment to measuring delivery and increasing accountability. She highlighted the importance of ensuring rural communities can engage with and benefit from ongoing devolution plans. Both organisations emphasised that getting this right is fundamental to bridging the productivity gap, stimulating economic growth, and creating a thriving countryside where communities have the necessary services and resources.