Rural Advocate reports on realities or rural England
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The Government's Rural Advocate, Dr. Stuart Burgess, today launched his second report to the Prime Minister, setting out the aspirations, experiences and concerns of people living and working in rural England. During 2007 Dr. Burgess visited rural communities up and down the country to listen to rural people about what matters most ─ the many benefits of rural living but also some real concerns.
His 'Report of the Rural Advocate 2007' sets out a wide-ranging package of actions for government to lead on, to tackle the issues people raised with him and ensure that rural areas continue to thrive.
Rural life can offer great advantages and I have seen many examples of real community spirit and creative solutions to problems. But I have also witnessed people in real hardship and struggling to get by.
“The lack of affordable homes to rent and to buy continues to be the single biggest issue highlighted to me on my visits...The loss of key services and their contribution to the vitality and sense of community within rural areas has been another recurring theme.
However, I have been especially impressed with the many creative examples of communities getting together and providing services which are under threat such as post offices being provided in pubs and community halls, as well as village shops.
In his report Dr. Burgess sets out a wide-ranging package of actions where leadership from government is required to tackle the issues people raised with him to ensure that rural areas continue to thrive. His recommendations range from calling for a standing recovery fund to help businesses continue trading after future environmental ‘shocks’, to encouraging rural communities to taking a lead on climate change and enhanced powers for parish councils.
More Details
To read the full press release, and find out more about the report visit http://www.ruralcommunities.gov.uk/events/ruraladvocatereportsonrealitiesofruralengland
You can download the report HERE.
last updated: 03-03-2008 17:31