‘This is a critical moment for the future viability of rural community businesses’ – James Alcock, Chief Executive of Plunkett UK, the rural community business
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Responding to the Chancellor’s Spending Review announcement, James Alcock said: “Plunkett is working with over 800 rural communities who hope to take ownership and save vital rural services such as their under-threat local pub, shop or café and make a significant contribution to the social wellbeing and economic vibrancy of these areas. Worryingly, the Community Ownership Fund was closed in 2024 and we are yet to see a similar support fund be introduced. The Government has promised to double the size of the co-operative movement, in addition to strengthening ‘Communities Rights’ including a ‘Community Right to Buy’. This is something Plunkett UK and its members want to see as soon as possible. However, for this ambition to become a reality, an essential package of funding and advisory support is required.
“As we have set out in our Impact 2025 Report and soon to be published Future of Rural Retail Report, community businesses make a significant contribution to Britain’s economy and the lives and wellbeing of people living and working in the countryside. However, they face several challenges as a result of operating in areas of market failure. Plunkett UK calls on the Chancellor to re-introduce a community ownership fund, create a Right to Buy and reduce the burden of business rates on community-owned businesses.
“In terms of the announcements for a new affordable homes programme, we are excited to look carefully at the details; we believe that Plunkett UK can offer community-led place-making solution for new-build developments and the provision of community-owned hubs and businesses.”
