 The dispersed nature of rural communities creates inevitable problems in terms of access to services. The challenge of delivering services in rural areas effectively and in a cost efficient way is different from that in urban areas. Good access to jobs and services in the rural area is vital, not only from a perspective of social exclusion, but in terms of supporting local businesses and in maintaining sustainable communities.
The original EMRAF Accessibility Subgroup was created as a specific outcome from an East Midlands Rural Transport Conference in late 2005, with an aspiration to further drive and develop the region's rural accessibility and transport agenda. The Subgroup has now evolved into the Quality Services Accessible to All Subgroup, to keep in line with the priorities stated in the East Midlands Rural Action Plan. The aim of this group is to provide a rural focus for accessibility and transport practitioners to identify, share and promote good practice and provide strategic representation on relevant regional groups.
The Subgroup which is Chaired by Vanessa Strange from Lincolnshire County Council and Vice Chaired by Penny Altham from Rural Community Action Nottinghamshire, has significant representation from key stakeholders including emda, Local Authorities, Rural Transport Partnerships, Rural Community Councils, The Federation of Small Businesses and The Campaign for the Protection of Rural England. Quarterly meetings and at least 2 events are held throughout the year at emda in Nottingham.
To enquire about becoming a member of the subgroup please contact us. |