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.

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10 Mar 2025

Government Funding For Rural Communities Set Out

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has announced that rural communities across the country are set to benefit from up to £38 million in funding. Up to...

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10 Mar 2025

LGIU Report Highlights Pressing Concerns for Local Government Finances

A recent report by the Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) has painted a stark picture of the financial pressures facing local councils in England. The LGIU’s 12th annual “State of...

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10 Mar 2025

Join ACRE in Celebrating Village Halls Week 2025

Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE) is looking forward to the return of Village Halls Week, scheduled for 17-23 March 2025. Village Halls Week is an annual celebration that...

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Rural Economy Spotlight – March 2025
Members only

10 Mar 2025

Rural Economy Spotlight – March 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 Government funding for rural communities set...

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03 Mar 2025

Digital Inclusion Action Plan Announced

The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has unveiled a comprehensive Digital Inclusion Action Plan, a landmark initiative aimed at enhancing digital skills and access across the UK. This...

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03 Mar 2025

The Disappearing Rural Banks: Parliamentary Debates Over a Deepening Challenge

Recent discussions in the House of Commons have brought to light the severe implications of bank closures in rural areas. Led by Simon Hoare, MP for North Dorset, a debate...

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03 Mar 2025

Rural Connectivity Seminar: Strategic Partnerships and Insights to Bridge the Digital Divide

The RSN hosted our Rural Connectivity Seminar last week, focusing on addressing the significant digital disparities affecting rural communities across the country. This event brought together a diverse group of...

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24 Feb 2025

Urgent Need for Support Among UK’s Unpaid Carers

A recent State of Caring Survey conducted by Carers UK has exposed significant challenges faced by unpaid carers across the UK, revealing a distressing trend of overwhelm and inadequate support....

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18 Feb 2025

Pubs can be the solution to rural challenges

Publicans and their pubs can be the solution to many of the problems faced in rural areas, Pub is The Hub chief executive John Longden OBE has said. The statement...

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17 Feb 2025

Major Expansion in New Town Developments Across Britain

The Prime Minister has unveiled comprehensive plans for a new generation of towns across Britain, marking the largest housebuilding initiative since the post-war era. This ambitious project aims to address...

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