Recent research from YouGov of over 1,150 business owners and managers shows that half of UK bosses based in an urban environment are dreaming of escaping the rat race to find their own small slice of rural happiness.

A fifth want to work for their own or another organisation in the countryside and 14 per cent have a desire to set up their own new business far away from a city environment.

Here, SmallBusiness.co.uk and Cornwall Pure Business offer these top tips for business owners and managers looking to take the plunge and make a new start away from the hustle and bustle:

• Think it through - Relocating is not a decision to be taken lightly. Remember, it’s not just your professional life that will change, but the personal life of you and your family. Moving can be driven by many reasons but it’s important that it is not a knee-jerk reaction to other issues in the business. Ensure your company is in robust health before you move – the move won’t automatically solve business problems, so consider if it may be better to stay put and address any major issues that have arisen.

• Where do you want to move to? - If you are confident a move is what is required then think rationally about where you are heading. Base your decision on sound business reasons such as cheaper premises or a higher demand for your products or services in the area.

• Swot up - Ensure you have up-to-date information on Britain’s regions - transport links, proximity to suppliers and customers, property availability, staff availability and legal issues.

• Ensure the finance is secured - Consider what it will cost to physically relocate and if you really have the funds available. It can be a costly exercise and getting the funds upfront is going to be vital if it is to be a smooth process. Remember, if you are looking to secure grants they may take up to a year to organise and expenditure on new equipment, transportation of existing assets and the cost of premises must all be factored in at the beginning of the financial year to ensure financial robustness over what can be a very testing time.

• Setting up shop - Check out potential sites and properties. Decide if you will lease or buy and factor in these costs. Remember, keep an eye on the future - don’t just think about where your business is now and your immediate needs. If you have to relocate because of growth make certain you anticipate future growth as well.

• Keep staff informed - Within your organisation open communication should help quell any uncertainty, and if there is competitive edge to be gained or lost on the relocation, this must play a role in informing your decision to make the details known to staff and competitors. Ensure you plan when and how you will tell them, who will be responsible for updating them and who will deal with the response, which may not be all positive.

• Tell the world - Ensure you communicate to suppliers and existing and potential customers on your email signature and c...

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