A newly formed Rural Coalition, made up of leading organisations which represent rural interests, is calling on the Government to deliver on its Big Society vision by radically empowering local people to shape the rural places in which they live. They are warning that without this action, rural services face meltdown as spending is cut, housing will outprice all but the wealthiest, and rural wages will continue to lag as much as 20% behind urban averages
The Rural Coalition claims that Community Led Planning offers a practical solution for rural communities. It can provide residents and other stakeholders with the opportunity to research and discuss what action needs to be taken locally, to guarantee the long-term future of their area.
Given the right support, it is clear that communities undertaking Community Led Plans can tackle some of the most pressing rural issues such as the provision of affordable housing, the sustainability of shops and services and climate change.
Chief Executive of ACRE, Sylvia Brown said, "Rural communities already demonstrate the Big Society in action, but with a supportive context set by central and local government, they can and will do far more to respond to new opportunities. We are pleased to see the Rural Coalition’s backing for using the principles of Community Led Planning to help local people decide on how they can better meet their aspirations".
The Rural Coalition’s recommendations were published in a report titled, ‘The Rural Challenge’ earlier this week.
Full details about the Rural Coalition and its recommendations for guaranteeing a future for rural communities can be accessed here.
