East Riding Council launches Rural Matters campaign to highlight support for countryside communities

East Riding of Yorkshire Council, supported by Energy Company RWE, has launched a campaign to highlight the many things which are happening to support rural residents.

Agricultural land constitutes 90% of the area of the East Riding, with half the population living in rural communities. The council is dedicated to addressing the challenges and opportunities of rural living.

The Rural Matters campaign will signpost residents towards services, networks for advice and support, as well as funding opportunities for those living in the countryside.

This includes the East Riding of Yorkshire Rural Partnership, launched in 1998, which has played a key role in representing rural interests. The partnership brings public, private and voluntary sector organisations together to develop and exchange ideas. It advocates for rural interests in consultations and in the development of the East Riding of Yorkshire Rural Strategy.

It also supports the local food and rural tourism network, recognising the vital role played by small businesses in the rural economy. The farming sector, which is so important to the East Riding, is also represented and through the Local Access Forum people are encouraged to enjoy the unique countryside.   

The Rural Matters campaign will also highlight the role East Riding council plays in managing wind farm community funds, where energy infrastructure provides a windfall for the local communities in the areas in which they are located. 

Councillor Gary McMaster, cabinet member for planning, housing, and infrastructure, said “We’re proud to support our rural communities and encourage everyone to take advantage of the opportunities highlighted by the Rural Matters campaign”

More information on the Rural Matters campaign, and services available, can be found at the website here