Yorkshire Post Manifesto: Rural

Rural firms want to see an action plan drawn up regarding how to place their sector on a level playing field with their urban counterparts and want politicians to take a lead on the issue.

Country Land and Business Association Yorkshire director Dorothy Fairburn said: "If rural businesses are to be able to compete effectively in the 21st century it is vital that they have an adequate broadband connection."

Another area under threat in Yorkshire's countryside is tourism, which is being hit by the removal of tax breaks for holiday homes which could deter landlords from entering into the market. Despite a campaign the regulations came into force on April 1.

Many people are also being forced out of the countryside by the shortage of homes to buy.

National shortfall in meeting targets for affordable housing construction

Urban – Less than one per cent

Rural – 13.75 per cent

Average house price

Urban – 153,000

Rural – 193,500

Number of new homes needed by 2035 in rural areas – 71,000

CASE STUDY: INTERNET WORRIES

Gareth Gaunt knows the perils that poor internet connections in the countryside have on business.

When Mr Gaunt created an office unit on his farm near Wetherby he found huge interest due his location in the so-called "Golden Triangle" between Leeds, Wetherby and Harrogate.

However despite offering first-class facilities at his farm at Carlshead, Mr Gaunt says he often feels like he is living in the Bermuda Triangle, as far as broadband connections are concerned.

A year ago he invested a five-figure sum in ducting to accommodate 17 lines but a fast broadband link will require a microwave link costing tenants around 600 a month.

Mr Gaunt says: "Broadband needs to be a right. Without it prospects for rural businesses are not good."