Farming and Food
In CPRE Hampshire's work on rural matters, our main concern is with factors that influence the beauty and diversity of our countryside and the health of rural communities. We are deeply concerned to support farmers, for without a prosperous farming sector there is little hope that the countryside will be well maintained. We strongly support local foods, which are good for farmers, consumers and the countryside. Working with other like-minded organisations we encourage good provision of services in rural communities, affordable housing where it is needed for local people, and a healthy rural economy.
Food Webs (May 2012)
CPRE has been conducting research into food webs and has found out the benefits of buying local food. One is that areas with strong local food webs have better access to fresh food and retain a distinctive local character in their towns and villages. As well as research reports, there is also a pilot project at Bishops' Waltham.
New Rural Partnership
CPRE Hampshire has formalised a strategic partnership to work with county food group Hampshire Fare. The two organisations share a common commitment to the prosperity and integrity of Hampshire. Both organisations believe that local food is good for farmers, good for producers, good for consumers and good for the countryside.
Farming
Farmers are crucial to the future of the Hampshire countryside because so much of it is farmed and will continue to be farmed. They are our most important countryside managers. Farmers need support to be able to give us the countryside we treasure. We can play our part by buying local foods at local outlets.
Recently published - CPRE's Vision for the Future of Farming (16pp; PDF - 2.5Mb)
Farming Page :: Why we should support Farmers
Local Foods
CPRE Hampshire supports local food production as a way of keeping the rural economy healthy. Since 2004 we have been involved in various projects, including sponsoring the Farmers' Market category of the Hampshire Life Food and Drink Awards and working with Winchester University to produce a local food directory in the Test Valley. We are also pleased that Hampshire Fare who actively promote the benefits of buying local produce are opne of our partners.
Affordable Housing
We spend much of our time fighting Government's demands for housing numbers beyond what is needed locally. Yet one concenrn is that many people cannot afford to buy homes in the countryside. CPRE Hampshire is highlihgting the need for affordable housing in Hampshire. CPRE's positive attitude to this issue has been recognised by our membership of the Affordable Rural Housing Commission.
The Need for Affordable Housing (Housing pages)
Sustainable Solutions for Rural Communities
Many rural communities are struggling to have the services they need to meet real needs. Whether its local bus services, a village hall, mobile library or health services, it is a challenge to deliver these to some communities in a cost effective manner. Right now we are in the process of developing a Transport Toolkit, which helps local communities push for joined-up thinking about how transport and local services can improve communities quality of life
This page last updated 12th May 2012.
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