NICRE director Jeremy Phillipson, Professor of Rural Development at one of its founding academic partners the Centre for Rural Economy at Newcastle University, said: “This is a time of great opportunity for the rural economy in the North East and we must grasp it with both hands.
“While the deep-rooted challenges facing rural areas are not to be underestimated, the emerging work of the combined authority and the new Government offers renewed scope for business growth and community prosperity.
“As a region, it’s more important than ever that we continue to work together to be in a best possible position to realise these opportunities, and those presented by wider shifts in business and the environment, to further unlock the potential in the rural economy.”