NEWS
News round-up The stories that matter to you
Government needs an ambitious plan for the rural economy
T
he CLA has called on the government to demonstrate that it has an ambitious plan for the rural economy in a publication highlighting a number of policies that could address regional inequalities impacting rural communities. The CLA believes that opportunities to create jobs and prosperity in rural areas are being ‘routinely missed’. The publication Levelling up: Unleashing the potential of the rural economy highlights several policies government should implement to address the regional inequalities that impact rural communities – including the need for investment in digital and electrical connectivity. The CLA says that the planning system is ripe for immediate reform. The current regime is restrictive, expensive and inefficient, harming the potential of the economy in rural areas. Other problems
include hidden additional costs and unrealistic demands caused by out-dated perceptions of the rural economy. The publication argues that Michael Gove, Secretary of State for the newlytitled Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, should
give greater priority to the rural economy’s potential in the National Planning Policy Framework, and that greater use of ‘permission in principle’ rules for proposals with demonstrable economic benefit will significantly boost local economies. If such changes are made, they will encourage rural businesses to consider new investment, encourage farm diversification, improve job opportunities and improve the interconnectedness of rural and urban supply chains. CLA President Mark Bridgeman says: “What is so frustrating is that so many rural businesses are ready to invest, create more jobs and opportunity for people, but are held back by a lack of ambition from the government. “For too long, government has considered rural affairs to be solely a matter for Defra, but Defra does not hold the required policy levers to enact many of the policies necessary to level up rural areas. As a result, transformative ideas often fall between organisational cracks, and opportunities to build strong communities, create jobs and prosperity are routinely missed.” To read the publication, visit cla.org. uk/campaigns/rural-powerhouse.
Visit the Farm Business Innovation Show this month The Farm Business Innovation Show is nearly upon us, taking place on 10 and 11 November at the NEC Birmingham. We look forward to welcoming you to the CLA’s stand No 2040, where we will be running a programme of seminars covering topics essential for anyone considering diversification.
10 NOVEMBER 2021 | LAND & BUSINESS
10-12 News_November 2021_Land & Business.indd 10
You will have the opportunity to hear from our experts on topics such as decarbonising rural buildings, the opportunities within environmental markets, making the most of your assets, and much more. You will also be able to speak directly to CLA advisers for invaluable advice and support.
Whether you are looking for inspiration and advice to grow or evolve your rural business, or are thinking of diversifying into the outdoor events and leisure industry, you will find a wide range of ideas on how to create new revenue streams at the Farm Business Innovation Show. To book your free tickets visit farmbusinessshow.co.uk.
cla.org.uk
19/10/2021 16:43
