Local authorities need to work together, developing closer partnerships across their boundaries and understanding the interdependence of urban and rural areas, if they are to deliver an effective and consistent level of service for all, according to...
Countryside Agency Archive

Breadcrumbs

Connecting town and country - 25 October 2001

Local authorities need to work together, developing closer partnerships across their boundaries and understanding the interdependence of urban and rural areas, if they are to deliver an effective and consistent level of service for all, according to Countryside Agency deputy chair Pam Warhurst.

Launching a new report Connecting Town and Country to an audience of local authority representatives today (25 October), Pam Warhurst said: "People living in towns and the countryside can feel that they are different and have little in common - in reality their experiences and problems are often similar. As foot and mouth disease has demonstrated, the prosperity of rural and urban communities is interlinked. Many people from villages use services in towns, while town-dwellers rely on a range of raw materials produced in the countryside. Town and country are interdependent and this must be reflected in the work that local authorities are doing.

"Our research shows that more than a third of local authorities already recognise this and have taken up the often difficult challenge of working with others to meet everyone's needs. This report is full of ideas and examples to inspire those policy makers who aren't already involved in such schemes and to show best practice to those who are. In Hampshire, for example, four local authorities have developed a website to help tackle the isolation of young people living in the countryside.

"I hope that authorities across the country will use this report and develop, if they haven't already, a partnership approach to improving people's quality of life wherever they live." 

Speaking on the same platform Dr Alan Whitehead, Minister for Local Government and the Regions said: "I recognise from my own experience how important it is for urban and rural authorities to work together on common issues. I know that there are many examples of good practice around the country. I look forward to hearing more about them and how better partnerships can be achieved."

Connecting Town and Country - joint working of local authorities in urban and rural areas is available free from Countryside Agency Publications, PO Box 125, Wetherby, West Yorkshire LS23 7EP.

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Notes for editors

The Countryside Agency is responsible for advising the Government and taking action on issues affecting the social, economic and environmental well-being of the English countryside. website www.countryside.gov.uk