CLA Meets Reform MP, Sarah Pochin
CLA Meets Reform MP Sarah Pochin, to discuss rural priorities in Runcorn and Helsby
Earlier this month, representatives from the CLA Midlands team met with Reform MP for Runcorn and Helsby, Sarah Pochin. The meeting provided an important opportunity to highlight both the challenges and opportunities facing the area’s rural community.
Topics covered during the discussion included much needed reform of the planning system, inheritance tax and the impacts of major infrastructure projects, such as the proposed Peak Cluster Pipeline. The team also raised local concerns around business rates, flooding and the need for better engagement with landowners throughout development processes.
Rural Interests in a predominantly urban constituency
Although rural areas make up a relatively small proportion of Runcorn and Helsby, they include land within the Northwest Green Belt and accommodate a diverse range of rural businesses. CLA members in the constituency collectively manage nearly 3,000 acres of grassland, arable land, woodland and amenity land, representing everything from smallholdings and land based enterprises to a local estate.
These businesses contribute directly to the local economy, but often face challenges that can be overlooked in a constituency dominated by urban priorities.
It was a pleasure to meet with Sarah and have such a constructive discussion about the challenges and opportunities facing rural businesses in her constituency. We welcome her engagement and look forward to working collaboratively to ensure rural voices are fully heard in future policymaking.
Next Steps
The CLA will continue to work with the MP’s office to provide insight into local rural issues, and champion the interests of land managers and rural enterprises across Runcorn and Helsby.