South West England priorities

To make sure that RDPE funding in South West England is invested in the most appropriate way, the aims, objectives and priorities for delivering the RDPE socio-economic investments were agreed with regional partners. These are set out in the South West Regional Implementation Plan.

  • Improving business efficiency and enabling business transformation
  • Developing the supply chain and adding value
  • Managing resources efficiently
  • Making the most of our rural environment
  • Enhancing landscapes and biodiversity
  • Developing and maintaining strong and inclusive rural communities

The Plan was drawn up following a thorough analysis of South West England's rural characteristics and economy, and sets out eight themes:

  • Skills development
  • Social enterprise
  • Business support
  • Supply chain and adding value
  • Resource management (soil, water, energy, waste)
  • Sustainable rural tourism
  • Biodiversity and landscape
  • Community-led development - Local Action

The themes will be reviewed, evolving over the lifetime of the programme, to ensure that they remain appropriate for the region. To find out more about the rationale for RDPE spending in South West England, see the South West Regional Implementation Plan.

To find out more about funding opportunities go to How do I get RDPE support and funding?

Rooftop view of a Gloucestershire town

Sunrise over a ruin on a hill