The UK government has announced a major funding boost for rural areas, with up to £38 million allocated to support infrastructure, essential services, and business growth in the countryside. The aim is that the funding will help to create jobs and drive economic growth while improving quality of life for rural communities.

Rural England Prosperity Fund given £33 million

A significant portion of this investment, up to £33 million, will be directed to the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF). The fund’s goal is to strengthen the rural economy and is designed to improve local infrastructure and essential services while supporting rural businesses to expand and diversify.

What kind of projects will be funded?

Businesses and community organisations in rural areas will be able to apply for funding for projects that help stimulate economic growth and enhance local facilities. Some of the key initiatives that will be eligible for REPF funding include:

  • Rural business hubs: Development of shared workspaces and networking spaces to support rural entrepreneurs and small businesses.
  • Business diversification: Funding to help rural businesses create new products, facilities, or convert building to expand beyond traditional agriculture.
  • Community greenspaces: Creation of community gardens and green spaces to improve wellbeing and local biodiversity.
  • Visitor trails and footpaths: Investment in new footpaths and local trails to boost tourism and accessibility.
  • Community hub improvements: Funding to upgrade kitchens in community spaces and enhance facilities used by volunteer organisations such as youth charities and carers’ groups.

Additional £5 million to support rural services

In addition to the REPF, a further £5 million has been allocated to support essential services. The key areas of investment this fund will make include:

  • Rural community assets fund: Providing capital for the refurbishment and development of community-owned assets such as village halls and community centres.
  • Affordable rural housing: Supporting Rural Housing Enablers to identify and bring forward sites for affordable housing.

What happens next?

Funding allocations for local authorities will be published soon. If you’re a business owner or community leader in a rural area, keep an eye on local authority announcements to see how you can benefit from this funding.

Need advice on how this might impact your business? Get in touch, and we’ll help you navigate the opportunities ahead!

See: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-funding-for-rural-communities-set-out