The Welsh Assembly has a developing web site. At present there is no comparable information to the State of the Countryside report. However there are important papers on Europe, Environment, Planning and Local Government that should be followed up. The bulk of this module has highlighted problems and issues facing rural communities. This needs to be put into context as there is wealth of rural community initiatives happening to address these problems and turn them into opportunities for rural development.
Next year working with rural communities explores the methods and approaches in more detail.
In particular the Tarka Project is an ideal web site designed for students looking at sustainable rural tourism. Nature, Community, Landscape and the visitor are integrated within this important green initiative. Cash is still a big issue. The module finishes with a look at the Issues in rural communities within North Ceredigion and South Pembrokeshire. The approach for North Ceredigion was unique in that a bunch of America community development professionals spent a week there and came up with a strategy for the area.