CLA welcomes new cross-government board putting rural needs at heart of major policies

The CLA has welcomed a new report pledging a cross-government board that will put rural needs at the heart of major policies.

Defra said the board will help unlock rural potential, with annual public reporting on progress.

The Future of Rural England report, drafted by the Rural Taskforce which the CLA has fed into, has identified six themes critical to thriving, inclusive and sustainable rural communities: economic growth and productivity; infrastructure and housing; skills and education; health and wellbeing; safety and community resilience; and connectivity.

The report recommends a more proactive approach that places rural communities at the centre of decision-making across all government departments.

CLA Deputy President Joe Evans said:

“The CLA welcomes today’s Future of Rural England report and its focus on embedding rural proofing across government. Only through a joined-up approach, with departments working together, can the full potential of the rural economy be unlocked.

“The challenge now is turning these recommendations into action. That means delivering affordable rural housing, improving digital connectivity and transforming our approach to planning so that it becomes an enabler, as opposed to a blocker.

“As devolution is rolled out, government must also ensure rural communities are not left behind. Getting this right is fundamental to closing the productivity gap, unlocking billions of pounds of economic growth and creating a thriving countryside.”

Secretary of State Emma Reynolds is marking the publication at the Great Yorkshire Show today, meeting with the CLA.