Royal response to rural growth programme
Council leaders have received a response from His Majesty The King, welcoming the work of the Marches Forward Partnership and offering his support for its long-term vision for the region.
The letter, sent from Buckingham Palace following correspondence from Councillor Heather Kidd and Councillor Jake Berriman, recognises the Partnership’s shared ambition to strengthen the rural economy while protecting and restoring the natural environment.
His Majesty expressed his appreciation for the collaboration between councils on both sides of the England–Wales border, describing it as encouraging to see partners working together through nature-based solutions to benefit communities as well as the environment.
The Marches Forward Partnership, which brings together Shropshire, Powys, Herefordshire and Monmouthshire councils, has set out an ambition to place rural areas, natural assets and infrastructure at the heart of economic decision-making, building a more resilient and sustainable future for communities across the region.
In their original letter, the council leaders highlighted the region’s strengths in land, water, food systems and energy, and the role these play in supporting national priorities such as food security, water resilience and critical services.
They also set out how projects including the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme are already exploring new ways to combine natural and engineered approaches to address challenges such as flooding and water stress.
Responding to these ambitions, Buckingham Palace said it was particularly interested to learn of plans to develop a model that could be replicated in other rural areas across the UK. The King has asked to be kept informed of progress, inviting a further update next year on the Partnership’s achievements and impact.
Heather Kidd, Leader of Shropshire Council, and Jake Berriman, Leader of Powys County Council, said:-
“We are honoured to receive a response from His Majesty and pleased that the work of the Marches Forward Partnership has resonated so strongly. This recognition reflects the strength of collaboration across our region and our shared commitment to working with nature to build a more resilient rural economy.
“At a time when global attention is focused on climate action through London Climate Week, it is particularly encouraging to see this approach recognised at the highest level. Our ambition is not only to deliver for our communities here, but to demonstrate how rural areas can lead the way in creating sustainable growth and long-term resilience.”
