The government "must give clearer guidance" on co-ordination between devolved authorities if the Northern Powerhouse and Midlands Engine deals are to unlock rural business growth.
The CLA, which represents 33,000 landowners, farmers and rural businesses across England and Wales, made the warning today.
The organisation says it supports greater devolution but has raised concerns to the government that policies and proposals focus on urban growth at the expense of rural areas.
CLA Senior Rural Business Adviser and Economist Charles Trotman said: "There are more than 600,000 rural businesses in England and Wales, employing 3.4 million people and playing a vital role both in the wider economy and also in the vibrancy of rural communities.
"The Devolution Deals create a real opportunity for central government, devolved authorities and rural businesses to work together to harness the great potential for economic growth in rural areas.
"However, the current policies and models make it too easy for rural areas to be ignored. Government must make it much clearer how devolved authorities are accountable for their performance in unlocking growth in rural as well as urban areas."
The CLA made these points in a submission to the Business, Innovation and Skills Select Committee Inquiry looking at the Northern Powerhouse and Midlands Engine.
