Member Article

Rural business survey launched

Rural businesses across North East England are being urged to help assess the impact of the economic slowdown for the region’s rural economy in what researchers hope will be the biggest survey of its kind.

The survey, being launched by the Northern Rural Network, is inviting any rural businesses - from sole traders, farms and start-ups to larger firms, consultants and long-established operations - to answer a range of questions about how issues such as the credit crunch, changes in fuel prices, the wet summer and the planning system are affecting their operations and plans for the future.

The results will inform work to tackle the challenges facing rural businesses, and to promote their importance in the wider North East economy.

Dr Jane Atterton, Newcastle University, who is part of the research team, said: “This survey has been designed to allow us to build a comprehensive picture of the current state of the rural economy, but it is manageable for businesses to complete. The more businesses that get involved the more powerful the results, and the stronger the voice of the rural economy.”

This survey is also being supported with funding from Northumbria Larder, and all businesses taking part before 15 December will be entered into a prize draw to win one of three £70 restaurant vouchers.

The first North East Rural Business Survey was undertaken by the Centre for Rural Economy at Newcastle University in 1999 with input from almost 2,000 firms.

To take part, visit www.ncl.ac.uk/cre.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .