The CLA identified digital infrastructure, planning and rates, affordability of housing and access to finance as major barriers to rural growth during the Efra Select Committee hearing.
CLA President Harry Cotterell said: “We are pleased the Committee listened to our concerns and we hope Defra will work more closely with other Government departments to further progress on these issues.
“For rural communities to be successful, it is vital for Defra to deliver improvements to broadband, mobile coverage and funding for rural businesses. Broadband is a necessity for the growth of the rural economy and as deadlines have not been met, the Government must make it clear when those in rural areas can expect to receive a proper service.
“If the rural economy is to grow, businesses also need to receive better financial support and it is crucial they receive the same access to funding as urban businesses.
“Like the CLA, the Efra report also welcomes the planning changes that have come through the NPPF and we hope that local councils will engage with the National Planning Policy Framework fully rather than selectively.
“Rural proofing is essential for monitoring the successes and failures of all policies applied to the countryside and therefore Defra should review rural proofing annually.”
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