Montgomeryshire AM Mick Bates has welcomed the report by the Commission for Rural Communities (CRC) into the future of the uplands.
The report states that there is a large potential for the uplands to provide public goods and market products and that government should work with local communities to unlock this potential. The CRC suggest this should be done by empowering local communities, increasing the supply of affordable housing and improving broadband and mobile communications access.
Commenting Mr Bates said:
“I welcome the report by the Commission for Rural Communities which highlights the great potential exists within our uplands. Often the beauty of our countryside belies the problems and poverty within and the report recognises the many challenges that rural areas face.
“There is great potential for upland areas to become areas of significant importance in the future and I am pleased that this has been recognised. The vital role that farming and land management have to play in the uplands has been acknowledged, as well as the need for more affordable housing for the young to ensure that the way of life in these areas remain accessible for future generations.
“I hope that the government will take this report on board and act on the recommendations to ensure a prosperous future for the uplands.”
