Rural futures: The British countryside and its potential

Rural Britain is often neglected in discussions about the big issues of the day. Yet it sits at the heart of the government’s missions to green the economy, boost growth, deliver housing and break down barriers to opportunity. The countryside could and should be a place of  innovation. It can deliver solutions and help meet targets for nature, people and climate. To do that, however, the government will need to match the ambition of previous Labour administrations, join up its approach to land use, and listen more to rural communities.

This pamphlet brings together rural MPs with a variety of experts and policymakers to explore the future of our countryside. As the authors set out, the potential of Britain’s rural areas is immense. By seeing rural areas as an social and economic asset, the government can realise this promise while protecting our countryside – and benefit communities across the country as a result.