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.
14 Apr 2025
Families Waiting Years for Truly Affordable Homes
In communities across England, families in desperate need of affordable housing are now facing waits that stretch decades—often far beyond their children’s upbringing—for a family-sized (3+ bed) social home. Analysis...
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14 Apr 2025
New Plan to Boost Neighbourhood Policing Nationwide
Last week, the government announced a new set of measures aimed at improving visibility, responsiveness, and trust in local policing. As part of the broader “Plan for Change”, the Neighbourhood...
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14 Apr 2025
iED in Westminster
Baroness Taylor of Stevenage OBE, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing and Local Government, joined around 90 delegates at the Institute of Economic Development (iED) House of Lords reception on...
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07 Apr 2025
Fixing NHS Dentistry
The latest “Fixing NHS Dentistry” report by the Public Accounts Committee provides a comprehensive overview of the ongoing concerns in NHS dental services across England, with an emphasis on the...
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07 Apr 2025
Navigating the Shift to Digital Landlines
The imminent transition from traditional analogue phone systems to digital landlines has stirred significant concern among rural MPs, as highlighted in a recent parliamentary debate. Led by Damian Hinds MP,...
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07 Apr 2025
Local heritage to be protected with £20 million of funding
Communities across England can now apply for a share of almost £20 million to help care for historic buildings and heritage sites in their local area, ensuring that everyone, everywhere...
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07 Apr 2025
North East Launches Coastal and Rural Taskforce
The inaugural meeting of the North East Coastal and Rural Taskforce took place recently at the Catalyst, Newcastle, supported by the National Innovation Centre for Rural Enterprise and Newcastle University....
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04 Apr 2025
Review of the Fuel Poverty Strategy
Department for Energy Security and Net Zero Closed 4 April 2025 Review of the Fuel Poverty Strategy The consultation sought views on an updated policy plan to support progress towards...
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31 Mar 2025
Addressing the Unique Challenge of Fuel Poverty in Rural Areas
In the latest fuel poverty update from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, a concerning pattern emerges in England’s rural communities. These areas are grappling with the highest...
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31 Mar 2025
An Update on the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF)
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has recently announced an important update regarding the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF). This fund, a critical component of the government’s...
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