SERTP looks to CAP reform future

14 July 2010

SERTP (South East Rural Towns Partnership), which represents 180 small rural towns and is working to build capacity and sustain rural communities, welcomes the opportunity to be involved in the Consultation on the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy post 2013.

Chris Windridge, Director, SERTP, explained the points the organisation will submit: "The needs of rural communities, within a policy for Agriculture and Rural Development, must consider transport, the digital age, employment, climate change, as well as landscapes, broader environment and sustainability, so overall it is optimised.

"It needs to consider diversification and new technologies, as much as security of our food supply and a competitive, yet healthy farming industry. While tourism is valued, alongside current rural industries, green and knowledge-based industries are already locating outside urban areas. There should be consideration of how to encourage and balance that alongside current agriculture policies.  The resources needed by communities include housing, schools, healthcare, places to meet and other basic facilities. Involvement of rural communities in making changes that affect their future is advocated."

SERTP will support the review and inform its communities as the consultation evolves.