The CLA welcomes grant funding boost but says do it quicker!

The CLA has welcomed the Government's decision to increase grant funding from 50 percent to 100 percent for projects under the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE).

However, if this is going to help rural businesses survive at this time of economic crisis, the process of administering grant funding must be speeded up.

CLA President Henry Aubrey-Fletcher said: "Any plan to help rural businesses during the recession is welcome and the Secretary of State's decision to increase the amount of grant funding available could be the type of cash injection many rural areas need.

"However, if this is going to work, it has to be done efficiently and quickly. Our concern remains that in too many cases, applications for grants under rural development programmes can take months before a decision is made.

"What is required is a fast-track approach where those who need grants can actually receive them in a timely fashion that will help negate the impact of the recession."

CLA MEDIA CONTACTS:

For further information and interviews:

Phillippa Coates, Press Officer, 020 7460 7934, phillippa.coates@cla.org.uk

Oliver Wilson, Director of Communications, 020 7460 7936 or 07702 928828, ollie.wilson@cla.org.uk,

Out of hours: 020 7201 9511.

Dr Charles Trotman – Head of Rural Business Development

An economist, advises on rural economic issues, particularly food policy, rural tourism, equine issues and telecommunications policy.

Phone: 020 7460 7939
FAX: 020 7235 4696
Email charles.trotman@cla.org.uk