Site updated 06-05-06
Regional Planning Priorities Relevant to INTERREG IIIB: East Midlands
A Sequential Approach To Development Form
A sequential approach to selecting land for development recognises the need to make the best use of land and optimise the development of suitable previously used land and buildings in urban areas. Sustainability criteria are used to apply the approach and assess site suitability.
A Focus on Regeneration
Regeneration is a priority. Economic, social and environmental regeneration will be sought within a policy context of encouraging sustainable development and improving the inter-dependency between urban and rural areas.
Economic Prosperity and Competitiveness
Maintaining economic growth to provide secure and rewarding jobs will make an important contribution to achieving the quality of life that is required to underpin more sustainable living patterns and a stable society this will be achieved through a public/private partnership approach.
Sustaining Urban Communities
Urban renaissance is the key to achieving more sustainable development. Urban areas, offer the greatest opportunity to ensure that homes, jobs and services are related to one another and hence maximise accessibility. The concentration of development also supports the efficient use of resources.
Sustaining Rural Communities
In order that rural areas can develop sustainably, strategies to satisfy local housing needs, diversify incomes, add value to rural produce, improve skills and broaden the economic base will need to be implemented, whilst at the same time ensuring that the environment is enhanced and protected.
Impact of Information and Communication Technology
Regional bodies should work together with ICT companies to investigate the likely impacts of changes in information and communications technology on the sustainable development of the region in the future. Their strategies and policies should seek to anticipate and respond positively to these changes, so that beneficial effects on the economy, environment and social well-being are maximised.
Inter-Regional Links
Many parts of the region have close functional and other relationships with areas in adjoining regions. It is important that these links are taken into account, in order to maintain the principles of sustainable development across regional boundaries. These relationships include significant numbers of people commuting to London and other conurbations; development pressures arising from adjoining regions, for example in Northamptonshire, and southern Lincolnshire; and nearby facilities in adjoining regions generating movement of people and goods out of the East Midlands, including to airports, ports and shopping facilities.
