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.

Hot Topics

17 Feb 2025

Geothermal Engineering and NICRE Drive Rural Innovation in Cornwall

A leading developer of UK deep geothermal power and lithium projects in Cornwall has teamed up with the National Innovation Centre for Rural Enterprise (NICRE) to showcase how it is...

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17 Feb 2025

Thousands To Benefit From The Security Of A Safe Home

In a significant move to combat the housing crisis in the UK, the government has announced a £350 million investment aimed at increasing the availability of affordable and social housing,...

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17 Feb 2025

Empowering Rural Youth: Herefordshire’s Employment Hub Launches New Opportunities for Career Development

The Rural Services Network is proud to highlight a remarkable initiative undertaken by one of our members, the Herefordshire Youth Employment Hub. This hub, a new cornerstone for youth engagement...

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11 Feb 2025

Local Government Finance Debate

A recent Local Government Finance Debate, overseen by Madam Deputy Speaker Caroline Nokes, offered a comprehensive platform to discuss the future of local government funding in England. Minister Jim McMahon...

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11 Feb 2025

New Report Showcases Community-Led Regeneration of Northumberland’s Rural Areas

A new report highlights how communities in Northumberland are breathing new life into their high streets and town centres by repurposing disused buildings into valuable community assets and housing schemes....

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11 Feb 2025

Government Unveils New Energy Efficiency Measures to Combat Fuel Poverty

The government has recently announced new measures under its accelerated Plan for Change. This initiative promises substantial benefits for households, particularly within the private rental sector, by targeting warmer homes...

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11 Feb 2025

The Homes That Children Deserve: Housing Policy to Support Children

New analysis from the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) finds that a combination of welfare reforms, rising numbers of children in the private rented sector and a lack of...

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11 Feb 2025

Key Updates on Local Government Devolution Plan

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has unveiled a comprehensive devolution package set to transform local governance across several regions in England. Under the leadership of Deputy Prime...

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03 Feb 2025

Concerns Over Final Local Government Finance Settlement’s Impact on Rural

As the Final Local Government Finance Settlement has now been published, the Rural Services Network (RSN) expresses deep concern over the allocation of government funding. The settlement fails to ensure...

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03 Feb 2025

ACS Report: Urgent Support Needed for UK’s Vital Rural Convenience Stores

The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has celebrated the investment, community contribution and range of services provided by the UK’s almost 19,000 rural convenience stores, despite significant challenges ahead.  The...

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