CLA signs agreement with Britain’s Leading Edge to boost rural cooperation
The CLA, representing landowners, land managers and rural businesses, signs memorandum of understanding with Britain’s Leading Edge at Royal Cornwall Show
The Country Land and Business Association (CLA) has signed a new agreement with Britain’s Leading Edge (BLE) to work together on key issues that matter to rural communities.
Founded in 2020, BLE is a network of 14 rural upper-tier local authorities without major cities1 that works with national and local government, academia and think-tanks to raise awareness of the unique challenges and opportunities facing peripheral areas. BLE areas have just over 2,400,000 hectares of agricultural land, representing 26.8% of England’s total agricultural area, making them especially important for national food security.
Making the commitment at the Royal Cornwall Show, the CLA’s President Victoria Vyvyan was joined by Cllr Adam Paynter, Deputy Leader of Cornwall Council - representing Britain’s Leading Edge - for the signing of the memorandum of understanding which will see the two organisations work together on key issues that matter to rural communities such as renewable energy, resilient food supply, nature and biodiversity, devolution, and rural economies. The aim of the agreement is to ensure both organisations continue to share knowledge, best practice, and collaborate on evidence-based policy work.
Cornwall Council Deputy Leader, Councillor Adam Paynter, said: “This agreement demonstrates our shared commitment to championing rural communities and businesses across the UK. By working together, we can make sure that government understands the unique challenges and opportunities faced by places like Cornwall and the people whose lives and livelihoods are impacted by policy set in London."
I am delighted that this partnership will help us bring a stronger, collective voice on critical issues like renewable energy, farming, and the visitor economy
CLA President Victoria Vyvyan commented: “Rural local authorities have vast economic, environmental and social potential but they also face very distinctive challenges. The rural economy is 16% less productive than the national average. If you close that gap, up to £43bn could be added to the Gross Value Added (GVA) of England alone.
“If the rural economy is to succeed, it is important for our voices to be heard, and one of the ways we can achieve this is by working in partnership, which is why the Country Land and Business Association has signed an agreement with Britain’s Leading Edge – a nationwide initiative which originated in Cornwall."
By combining our efforts, we can push for change and remove the barriers to economic growth that exist in the countryside
"As an organisation, our aim is to help unlock the potential of the rural economy. We are delighted to show our support for Britain’s Leading Edge as it highlights the contribution that rural regions can make to a sustainable rural economy.”
Regular meetings will be held to monitor progress and explore further opportunities to support rural communities.
