RISING fuel costs, reduced bus services, a poor and expensive rail network, and lack of fast broadband is threatening to halt any economic recovery in rural areas.

The Country Land and Business Association’s Northern region has warned the Government that the countryside is being priced out of business.

Douglas Chalmers, director CLA North, said the rural economy provides the nation with much more than quality food and attractive views.

“It is a hotbed of entrepreneurialism that in terms of economic output punches above its weight, yet is under threat of being stifled because it simply cannot afford to compete, continue or contribute,” he said.

Roads and private transport are the lifeblood of the rural economy because, where buses and trains do exist, they are infrequent, expensive and do not offer a real alternative.

Mr Chalmers said an increasing number of premises remain unsold or unlet because they cannot access fast, affordable broadband or because their location means that raw materials and products would be too expensive to move.

“The simple fact is that if you want to get food on the shelves of our towns and cities, and tourists and clients to rural businesses, the road is the only practical alternative,”

he said.

“We are already hearing of rural businesses considering relocating.

Unsuitable public transport and expensive alternatives prevent people travelling to work, training or education.

Rural dwellers also face social exclusion for the same reasons.”

Mr Chalmers said such a situation could not be allowed to continue.

“Government must accept that they are in danger of pricing the countryside out of business,” he said.

“The CLA’s job is to point out that the inevitable repercussions will be felt by the whole economy, and for a very long time.

“We need to address rising fuel prices, reconsider raising rail fares above inflation, and invest in rural transport networks, not reduce them.

“We also need the option of universal access to fast, affordable broadband. Only then can the countryside play the part that it is so eager to play, and help this country get back on its feet.”