Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE)
Funding is available from Defra to use the natural and cultural resources in England’s rural areas to attract visitors and create new employment opportunities through the development of the tourism sector in the rural economy.
The four main priority type projects for funding that have been identified are:
1. Projects supporting increased access to natural areas and the historic environment, especially by disadvantaged/ under-represented groups
2. Projects supporting tourism activities linked to quality regional and local food culture and local crafts
3. Small scale capital investments by tourism businesses to become more cycling, walking or equestrian friendly
4. Assisting tourism providers to develop clusters and business initiatives to meet visitor needs and market their products and services
However, additional activities which are also of interest are:
1. Development of “Sherpa” type services to support long distance routes
2. Development of cycle hire services to support cycling tourism
3. Development of new ‘niche’ markets
4. Small scale infrastructure such as signposting/interpretation of sites
5. Improved information and booking arrangements
If you’d like more information or support for your business then email Marketing Lancashire or call 01772 426450.
In the North West the Northwest Regional Development Agency is responsible for its delivery. Lancashire County Council is delivering the funding at a local level and has set up three Local Action Groups (LAGs).
Contact:
The North Lancashire LAG covers the rural areas of Lancaster, Wyre and Fylde Contact Sharon McGuinness on 01254 300469 / 07875 185531 or e-mail smcguinness@lancashire-ep.org.uk or
The West Lancashire LAG covers the rural areas of South Ribble, Preston, Chorley, and West Lancashire. Contact Karen Kerrigan on 01254 300481/07875 185532 or e-mail kkerrigan@lancashire-ep.org.uk
The Penine Lancashire LAG covers the rural areas of Blackburn with Darwen, Ribble Valley, Hyndburn, Pendle, Rossendale and Burnley. Contact Rik Patterson on 01254 300496/077875185533 or e-mail rpatterson@lancashire-ep.org.uk
