Rural economy in England

Despite the magnitude, however, many rural economies struggle to meet their full potential.

An ageing population, combined with other unique challenges, such as sparse geography, poor connectivity and inadequate transport, means that all too often rural economies are held back, and struggle to grow in the same way as their urban counterparts.

All ACRE Network members are committed to delivering tangible actions that can empower rural communities to thrive.

These include working to support community-owned assets, providing business advice, nurturing social enterprises and working with external partners to improve rural transport.

ACRE Network members in Devon, Cumbria and Durham are among those to have developed specific initiatives to support their respective rural economies.