Rural Solutions has been an innovative contributor in helping to galvanise the rural economy over the last 10 years. In particular, the company has been amongst the pioneers of the creation of rural business centres in the grounds of historic houses, farms and country estates across the UK.
A profile of the company's work shows that through careful design, planning, management and marketing the value of redundant land and buildings can be restored and increased and their successful regeneration undertaken via a process described as Concept-to-Completion. To achieve this, the company has recognised the need to develop innovative and flexible methods of funding, procurement, marketing and letting.
Foundation
Rural Solutions grew out of the development of the Broughton Hall Business Park, near Skipton - a showcase for innovative and outstanding building renovations.
The success achieved at Broughton - by unlocking the value of redundant land and buildings, and redeveloping them as high specification offices, attracting investment and employment to the rural economy - has been extended to many other country estates and rural holdings throughout the UK.
In 2006, Accent Group - one of the UK's largest community investment organisations - acquired Rural Solutions, bringing new capabilities and increased competitiveness to help deliver and service Rural Solutions’ regeneration projects. From 2006, the company's geographical reach and the range of skills it can offer also increased significantly with the opening of a new southern office in Cheltenham.
About Accent
Accent Group is a non-asset owning community investment and managing agency specialising in providing solutions for local communities across housing, health, regeneration and education. Rural Solutions leads its activities in the rural sector and the countryside at large.
Established in 1966 as a Co-operative Society, Accent has grown and diversified over this period, adding to an increasing portfolio of partner services. These include:
- Affordable and rural housing for rent and sale
- Market rent and key worker housing
- Leasehold management and homeowner services
- Development and management of community health care and education facilities
- Construction partnering and supply chain management
As a non-profit/charitable organisation, their surpluses are invested back into the communities in which they work through the Accent Foundation.
Management
Rural Solutions is guided by an experienced Board of Directors, each with a distinguished and practical background in commercial and community rural development. The company is driven by a hands-on senior management team of consultants and specialists, delivering a range of skills that enable the company to provide a full Concept-to-Completion service to clients and partners.
