Scotland: National Rural NetworkProfessor David Freshwater of the OECD Rural Development Programme gave a presentation called 'Future Direction in Rural Development' at the Rural Gathering event at Perth Racecourse. In his presentation he said that barriers to rural development come from unexpected places such as housing. He also said that if we don't fix the housing problem, we can't fix the labour problem.
How important do you think housing is to wider rural development in Scotland? What impact does a lack of housing have in your area?
In the coming months, we hope to bring you examples of affordable housing solutions from across the country. For more on Professor Freshwater's presentation see Rural Gathering: Future Directions in Rural Development.
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Housing is vital
Housing is vital to the future of rural communities. If there isn't enough affordable housing people are forced to move away and young people can't afford to return. The situation is worsened by the fact that there isn't a lot of rented accommodation in rural areas.
I was interested by David Freshwater's presentation that unless you fix the housing problem you won't fix the labour problem. In a way its a bit chicken and egg. If there isn't enough work people can't afford mortgages even for 'affordable' houses.