With countryside planning issues more and more frequently in the news the RTPI has established a dedicated network to ensure that the problems of rural communities get the attention they need, writes Rhian Brimble

The RTPI rural planning network was launched on 14 June at the Planning Convention. In the wake of the planning white paper, the network has been warmly welcomed as a valuable way of pushing rural planning further up the policy agenda. By encouraging the exchange of information, experience and expertise, it will devise solutions to many of the problems faced in rural areas.

The launch was supported by RTPI president Jim Claydon, Natural England principal specialist in planning and land use David Brooke and Commission for Rural Communities head of planning, housing and transport Trevor Cherrett.

The network will explore and debate issues such as:

• Sustainable rural communities.
• Delivery of affordable housing.
• Provision of public transport.
• Effective engagement of rural communities in planning.
• The future of rural services.
• Changes to green belts.
• The changing face of agriculture.
• Rural economies and landscapes.

The network also recognises the need to plan for and tackle the impacts of climate change in rural areas. As areas differ widely so to do ways of dealing with the issue, meaning that a joined-up approach is needed in developing policy.

Members of the RTPI countryside and natural environment panel have evolved into a core group that will help further development of the network and advise on rural issues.
The individuals that comprise this group bring with them a wealth of skills and experience. They represent many different organizations and areas of employment such as the Environment Agency, Natural England and Scottish Natural Heritage, as well as academia, local authorities and private consultancies.

A regular e-bulletin will be sent to network members with news of activities, events and relevant government consultations. Its website allows RTPI members to sign up online and non-members to download an application form. It also hosts a discussion forum to allow information and experiences to be shared. Outputs of network activity will inform the RTPI and help shape its views on wider rural issues. The network will involve RTPI members and non-members from the UK and beyond to share knowledge on rural issues and develop good practice. They will be encouraged to submit information for the bulletins and get involved in network events. We hope that engaging members from different sectors and nations will allow us to compare issues and approaches.

One of the first activities of the network will be to engage members in setting its agenda for the future. As rural planning covers such a diverse range of subjects, we will be surveying network members to find out what they feel are the most topical and important issues. This will inform future network events and activities. We would like to hear from you with any suggestions for areas or themes that you feel should be addressed by the new network. The RTPI is also embarking on research to examine whether planning systems in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and England support or constrain sustainable development of rural economies through farm diversification.

Study aims to identify issues

The purpose of this work is to identify current or emerging issues, assess whether good practice guidance is required, provide an information resource for planners and stakeholders with an interest in the rural economy and make recommendations for future action. The rural planning network will play an important part in this study.
In summary, the main aims of the network are to: 

• Bring rural planning practitioners together to discuss problems and find solutions. 
• Provide a means of exchanging news and knowledge. 
• Advise government and other bodies on all relevant issues. 
• Provide a voice for its members. 
• Study rural planning challenges.

Rhian Brimble is rural planning network manager at the RTPI. If you want to join or learn more about the network, please visit our website or email us. If you would like a detailed project brief for the farm diversification study, please email Deborah Hendon-Jones. 

Author:

Louise Compagnone

Publisher:

The Royal Town Planning Institute

Date:

22-Jun-07

Categories:

RTPI News 

Sections:

News & Media

This article has been read 1518 times.