Economic development key to rural regeneration, says CLA

The CLA today (3 December) broadly backed economic regeneration plans in the proposed Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Bill.

CLA President Henry Aubrey-Fletcher said the proposed Bill – which would help to bring more democracy to the Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) in England and formally abolish the regional assemblies - raises vital issues for the rural economy.  

 

He said: "This Bill is a cornerstone of the new Single Regional Strategies which will be put together by the RDAs, in conjunction with local authorities. It is vitally important for these new strategies to embrace both the needs and ambitions of the rural economy and rural communities.

 

"We now have the opportunity to consider more innovative proposals that may allow some new organic growth and development in the countryside.

 

"By doing so, the needs of the rural economy and rural-based businesses, both land and non-land based, will no longer be ignored at both regional and local level."

 

The CLA President added: "We must ensure that any proposed changes reflect a better understanding of the needs of rural businesses and communities at both regional and local levels.

 

"The CLA will be at the forefront in informing and briefing politicians on the changes we believe are necessary whilst entering into a full dialogue with all the RDAs for the benefit of all in the rural economy."

 

 

CLA MEDIA CONTACTS:

 

For further information and interviews:

 

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

 

Out of hours duty phone: 020 7201 9511