Rural Development Plan 2007-2013

The Rural Development Plan for Wales is part of a new European Union programme to promote the economic regeneration of rural areas. Swansea has secured a £350,000 share of £800m allocated to Wales over a five year period starting in 2008.

The funding secured covers the years 2009-2011, with the application process for 2011-2013 due to commence soon.

The RDP is aimed at assisting communities, helping to boost their local economy by supporting local businesses, improving basic services, village enhancement schemes, improving skills through training, and improving public and community transport.

The rural areas within the City & County of Swansea have been recognised as an important part of the region. Although containing only twelve percent of the population of the City & County, it is spread over sixty percent of the land area and is located in some outstanding landscapes. The RDP provides an opportunity to build on the achievements that have already taken place in these areas, and explore new possibilities. Tourism is very important in terms of the local economy of these areas, with walking and tourism holidays growing in popularity, but with a minimum adverse effect on the environment. There is also the opportunity to build on the excellent public transport service in Gower and develop it throughout the rural areas of Swansea.

The initial focus in Swansea will be on the promotion of walking and cycling, tourism, and local food and crafts. Swansea Council is hoping local people will help contribute their ideas on how funding could be used. In Swansea the funding will be shared between eight rural areas including, Gower, Penclawdd, Pennard, Bishopston, Fairwood, Mawr, Pontarddulais, and Llangyfelach.

The Council has helped set up the Swansea Rural Development Partnership. Further information on the Partnership, and the new 'Local Action Group' Rural Swansea Action that has been set up to deliver a new approach to rural development in Swansea can be found in these pages.