Rural Voices in a New Era of Development

The Government’s recent announcement of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill is being hailed as the start of the “biggest building boom” in a generation. With an aim to deliver 1.5 million new homes and fast-track key infrastructure projects across the UK, the Bill promises sweeping changes to the way developments both urban and rural take shape.

At the heart of these reforms is a new opportunity and challenge for rural communities: how to ensure their needs, identities, and futures are not lost in a race to build. This is exactly where the Rural Housing Enabler (RHE) plays a crucial role. “This role is all about connecting the dots,” says our RHE, Ollie Brice. “We work with communities, councils, and housing associations to make sure rural areas don’t get left behind or overlooked.”

The Rural Perspective in a National Vision

While the Bill promises to streamline the planning process and cut down bureaucracy through a national scheme of delegation, it’s vital that rural communities, often facing their own unique pressures, are not treated with a one-size-fits-all approach.

With the introduction of strategic planning across local authorities, there’s hope that rural needs will finally be recognised at the same level as urban centres. Yet, to truly understand those needs, data must come from the ground up. That’s where Ollie’s work is key. “Through Housing Needs Surveys and community engagement, we get a clear picture of what residents actually need. It’s not just about building more houses - it’s about building the right homes, in the right places, for the right people.”

Balancing Progress with Preservation

The Bill also includes the introduction of a Nature Restoration Fund, a welcome move for many rural residents who are passionate about protecting their local environment. Ollie agrees this is a step in the right direction “Rural communities care deeply about their surroundings. Development should enhance what’s already there, not damage it. My role is to find that balance between growth and preservation.”

With changes to the compulsory purchase process and faster permissions for major energy projects like wind and solar farms, the pace of change could be rapid. That’s why having someone who can interpret and communicate these changes at the local level is more important than ever.

Bringing Benefits to Rural Communities

One of the more promising elements of the Bill is its emphasis on community benefits. From discounts on energy bills for those living near new infrastructure to the creation of local community funds, there’s a real opportunity to deliver lasting, positive change.

But delivering these benefits requires someone on the ground to keep communities informed and ensure their voices are heard. Ollie’s role helps bridge that gap “A big part of my job is making sure people know what’s happening, what their rights are, and how they can get involved. Especially in rural areas, where information doesn’t always travel as quickly.”

Looking Ahead

As the Planning and Infrastructure Bill moves through Parliament, the spotlight is firmly on how these reforms will affect communities up and down the country. For rural areas, it’s a moment of both opportunity and risk.

That’s why the work of Rural Housing Enablers like Ollie Brice, supported by networks such as Action with Communitues in Rural England (ACRE) and championed by the Rural Services Network is so vital. They ensure that development is not just about numbers on a page, but about real people, real communities, and real futures.Because building homes is one thing. Building thriving, balanced, and resilient communities, that takes listening, collaboration, and a deep understanding of what makes rural life so special.

This article is one in a series, to read the previous article, please click here.