Rushcliffe MP James Naish has welcomed the publication of a new report which highlights the political priorities, challenges and opportunities facing rural communities across the UK – something that he says has often been a “blind spot” for politicians and officials who often live in, and gravitate towards policy challenges facing, larger urban areas.

The research Understanding Rural Britain, led by a group of 26 Labour MPs who constitute the Labour Rural Research Group, drew on a survey of over 1,400 rural voters, including dozens of residents from Rushcliffe who took part after James promoted the survey locally.

The findings show that:

  • Nearly three quarters (74.4%) of respondents feel rural communities have been overlooked over the past 15 years.
  • Over three in five (60.7%) say their rural community is in decline.
  • More than 80% believe a distinct rural strategy is needed to address challenges such as access to services, affordable housing, and the future of farming and food production.
  • Over 65% support local development, provided it respects rural identity and local needs.

The report has already attracted national media attention in the Mirror, The Times and The Telegraph, underlining the importance of giving rural communities a stronger voice in shaping national policy.

James said: “This research shines a light on what many of us already know: rural communities like many parts of Rushcliffe have unique strengths and face unique challenges – but for too long, they’ve been overlooked or thought about through urban lenses.

“Nobody really knows how to harmoniously manage rurality and development side by side. As a result, rural areas are subject to a constant tug of war. More work must be done by politicians, locally as well as nationally, to define what sustainable development looks like.

“I’m especially pleased that dozens of local residents were willing to contribute to this survey, helping to ensure Rushcliffe’s voice is heard in Westminster. From farming and food production to access to GP surgeries, transport and affordable homes, these issues affect daily life here and need to be addressed.

“I’ve already called for a specific rural strategy in Westminster and as Vice Chair of this Group, I’ll continue working to make sure rural issues are central to the government’s mission for growth and opportunity across the country.”

The Labour Rural Research Group will use the findings to shape further policy work over the coming year. This will include detailed proposals on balancing energy needs, housing, public services, agriculture and environmental recovery.

 

The full report, Understanding Rural Britain, can be downloaded at: labourruralresearchgroup.com.