New strategy to boost Norfolk’s rural economy

A new rural strategy for Norfolk is to be launched at a special business event at the Green Britain Centre in Swaffham.

Since the original Norfolk Rural Development Strategy was published in 2013, there have been significant changes, which will have major impacts on Norfolk’s rural economy. These include the UK voting to leave the EU, the introduction of the National Living Wage and rapid advances in technology.

To respond to the changes, the Norfolk Rural Strategy Steering Group commissioned a refresh of the 2013 strategy to identify the priority areas on which the Norfolk rural community needs to focus between now and 2020.

Steering group discussions alongside consultation with groups including business representatives, community organisations, charities and environmental bodies informed development of the strategy’s five priorities: vision and lobbying for support, technology driven, world class environment, agri-food competitiveness, and enablers of growth.

In addition, the strategy addresses the issue of relatively low qualification levels within rural Norfolk which, particularly at a time of rapid change, could restrict its ability to embrace future opportunities.

Cliff Jordan, leader of Norfolk County Council, said: “Caring for our countryside and the people who live and work there is one of Norfolk County Council’s key priorities. This revised strategy will help us respond to the significant opportunities and challenges of the next few years in order to strengthen our rural economy.

“In particular, the funding landscape for farming, the environment and rural development is changing and the strategy underlines the need to make the case for continued investment in rural areas.

“Effective delivery of the strategy requires close cooperation and action from all partners with a stake in our rural economy.”

Clarke Willis, chair of the Norfolk Rural Strategy Steering Group, said: “If we are to deliver new environmental programmes, embrace the potential of technology, improve agri-food competitiveness or find new ways to deliver modern infrastructure, we will all have to learn new skills. Upskilling our existing workforce and making rural areas attractive to highly skilled young people is therefore essential if these areas are to fulfil their potential.

“The success of the strategy depends on action by businesses and local communities, with the public sector playing a supportive and enabling role. We look forward to working with others to drive all five priority areas forward for the benefit of rural Norfolk.”