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.
30 Jun 2025
New Roadmap Sets Out Vision to Unlock Rural Prosperity and Deliver for All
The Rural Services Network has today published Delivering for All: A Roadmap for Rural Prosperity—a comprehensive new policy document setting out the case for fairer funding, smarter metrics, and targeted...
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30 Jun 2025
Spending Review 2025
HM Treasury Updated 30 June 2025 Spending Review 2025 The Review sets out the government’s plans to invest in Britain’s renewal: its security, health and economy. It sets departmental budgets...
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24 Jun 2025
Social Mobility Starts with Rural Opportunity
Social Mobility, An Opinion Piece by Kerry Booth, Chief Executive of the Rural Services Network Should Where You Are Born Limit Your Potential? In a report recently published by The...
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24 Jun 2025
House of Lords Hears from RSN on Rural Challenges
Last week, Rural Services Network Chief Executive Kerry Booth gave oral evidence to the House of Lords Social Mobility Policy Committee as part of its ongoing inquiry into the barriers...
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24 Jun 2025
Government Launches Fair Funding and Council Tax Reform Plans
The Government has published a major Written Ministerial Statement setting out the next stage of its plans to reform how local government in England is funded — and how council...
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24 Jun 2025
Innovation Is Key To Rural Retail Resilience
The Future of Rural Retail, launched by Plunkett UK, explores how community-owned shops can remain relevant in a fast-changing retail environment. Drawing on insights from a national taskforce of 19...
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24 Jun 2025
The Future of Community Bus Services: Have Your Say
The Rural Services Network is pleased to share details of new research from one of our members, the Community Transport Association (CTA), exploring the use of Section 22 permits in...
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24 Jun 2025
Decade-Long Infrastructure Strategy Unveiled with £725bn Investment Plan
The Government has published a new 10-Year Infrastructure Strategy, setting out a long-term plan for investment in economic and social infrastructure across the country. The strategy aims to provide greater...
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24 Jun 2025
New NFU Mutual Report Highlights Growing Impact of Rural Crime
The latest Rural Crime Report from NFU Mutual offers a detailed picture of the financial and emotional toll rural crime continues to take on our communities. Drawing on annual claims...
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09 Jun 2025
Rural Economy Spotlight – June 2025
A quarterly bulletin facilitated by your membership of the Rural Services Network highlighting a selection of current rural economic development news, issues and opportunities New platform supports UK producers of...
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