Key issues which are being probed to boost rural areas and market towns in Cheshire West and Chester are highlighted in annual report.

Nov 11 2010 by David Norbury, Chester Chronicle

KEY issues which are being probed to boost the borough’s rural areas and market towns are highlighted in Cheshire West and Chester Council’s annual report for 2009/10.

The council says it is working with local people, agencies and organisations to secure significant contributions.

Priority questions are being assessed to improve the economic, social and environmental aspects of the countryside.

Aspects which are under review include maximising the economic potential of the rural areas and market towns, creating a sustainable food supply and improving the competitiveness of farming.

Providing access to affordable living for rural communities is included.

Connecting rural communities is under consideration including improving broadband connectivity, capitalising on the borough's environmental potential and improving public transport, post offices, shops and schools in the rural area.

“Our achievements will be measured in future years when the benefits of setting a bold and ambitious strategy for this project will be realised,” says the council.