Rural council leaders have called for a renewed focus on rural matters across Welsh Government to help spur economic growth.

Members made the call at a Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA)-hosted discussion at the Royal Welsh Show in Llanelwedd, focusing on councils’ role in supporting to stimulate rural local economies.

Chair of the Senedd’s Rural Growth Cross-Party Group, Samuel Kurtz MS, also outlined the recommendations of its recently published report.

Recommendations include:

Significant investment in digital infrastructure to improve broadband and mobile connectivity.
The introduction of Planning in Principle to simplify and expedite the planning process.
Adjusting the Sustainable Farming Scheme to provide clear and flexible funding for sustainable practices.
Establishment of a Rural Development Board to set a clear rural development strategy.

Cllr Dyfrig Siencyn, WLGA Rural Spokesperson, said:

“Over a third of the Welsh population call Rural Wales home. Towns and villages in these areas are full of innovation, vibrancy, and enterprise, across industries such as agriculture, tourism, forestry, retail, commercial, hospitality and many more besides. These communities deserve equal consideration and as many opportunities to thrive as in other places in all parts of the country.

“But the distinct needs of rural communities are significantly different to those of urban conurbations. Important matters such as connectivity and public transport, housing needs, and digital infrastructure, can disproportionately impact residents and businesses living in the often-disparate towns and villages of our rural communities. The only way to fully recognise the needs of our rural heartlands is through a dedicated focus on rural matters across Welsh Government in all areas.

“The Senedd report is a step in the right direction for rural Wales and it picks up on some of the things we’ve been asking for. The WLGA is ready to collaborate with all stakeholders to implement these recommendations and ensure a prosperous future for rural Wales.”