Rural places make up 86% of England. Nearly one-fifth of our population live and work there (9.8 million people), in a patchwork of farms, hamlets, villages and towns. These rural areas are living, dynamic communities which contribute significantly to the national economy and to our national heritage, culture and character.

Defra is the rural department within government and a rural champion across government – promoting the interests and needs of rural people, communities and businesses. This is led by Defra’s Rural Communities Policy Unit (RCPU). We are working to make sure the needs and interests of people living and working in rural areas are taken into account in all government policies and programmes. To support this Defra provides guidance and advice across government. For more information see our Rural Proofing pages.

Latest News

• Summary of response and government response to consultation on the  abolition of the Commission for Rural Communities
• The cost of fuel in rural areas report published.
• Rural Growth Networks pilots announced – five Rural Growth Network pilots (PDF) will be established during 2012/13. For further details see News Release and Frequently Asked Questions (PDF).

Key facts and figures

• 86% of England’s landmass is rural
• Rural areas are defined as settlements with fewer than 10,000 people.
• 18.9% of the population of England live in rural areas (9.8 million people in 2010).
• 1.2% of the population lives in sparse rural areas (620,000 people in 2010). These are areas where the surrounding area is defined as being remotely populated.

Contact us

We are keen to gather evidence, insights and information from rural people and their representatives on the challenges and solutions in rural communities. You can contact us by emailing: rural.communities@defra.gsi.gov.uk