Stronger Rural Communities

Develop Social Capital and empower communities to influence decision making
Ensure equality of services for everyone, particularly vulnerable groups
Support parish / town councils and the voluntary and community sector to meet the needs of rural communities
Reduce vulnerability, crime and anti-social behaviour in rural areas
Increase access to affordable rural housing

Rural Economic Development

Support rural businesses to start up, and expand
Encourage entrepreneurial activity and emerging sectors of the rural economy
Support the development and creation of social enterprise
Improve employment and skills opportunities
Increase the contribution of rural tourism to the rural economy
Support the role of market towns and rural centres

Improving Accessibility and Information

Develop an effective rural transport network providing access to training, employment, health, leisure and recreation
Ensure all residents are able to access key services, facilities and information through ICT development
Develop the role of market towns and rural centres to better serve and support their rural hinterland
Develop a single ‘gateway’ so that everyone can access key agencies and assistance

Enabling Rural Services and Facilities

Deliver and support services and facilities that effectively meet the needs of rural communities
Ensure that market towns and rural centres offer a range of facilities to visitors and residents
Help create inclusive communities that provide a range of housing options, choice and safety at home

Countryside and the Environment

Improve the quality, and protect the heritage of town and village centre environments
Improve the quality of green space and accessibility to it
Work with ENABLE to increase awareness and response to climate change, and to improve bio-diversity
Encourage opportunities for diversification, and assist the land-based sector to develop their knowledge and skills base
Support the development of forestry related businesses