Site updated 06-05-06
Regional Planning Priorities Relevant to INTERREG IIIB: West Midlands
The West Midlands is a region of great diversity ranging from major urban areas to sparsely populated rural areas. This diversity is also reflected in the nature of its population, with a wide range of multi-cultural communities. The challenge for the region is to use this diversity as one of its key strengths.
Sustainable Development
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Development of a balanced polycentric pattern of development and a new urban-rural relationship, building on the study of the structure of the region undertaken during the development of the RPG.
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Promotion of social inclusion including parity of access to infrastructure and knowledge.
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Prudent management and protection of natural and cultural heritage.
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Integration of environmental issues into priority regeneration areas.
City Centres, Towns and Market Towns
Revitalising the town and city centres in the region so that they meet the needs of communities and businesses, recognising the role of different centres including market and coalfield towns.
Water issues
Minimising the threat of flood risk in different parts of the region in the light of climate change and considering the wider implications of Watercourse Catchment Management, both of the above can be implemented through innovative approaches to development and the sharing of best practice.
Accessibility
Create a Region with an efficient network of integrated transport facilities and services that meets the needs of both individuals and the business community whilst reducing the environmental impact. This vision could be delivered by the following measures.
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Reducing the need to travel.
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Regional Transport networks.
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Rail network improvements.
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Integrated public transport network.
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Improving the efficiency of freight movement.
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Improvement in the accessibility of rural areas.
Previously-developed land
Promoting the maximum re-use of previously-developed land and understanding the barriers to its development
Tourism
Encouraging urban and rural tourism economy through protecting and improving attractions and accommodation in a way that focuses on targeted visitor markets, maximises economic returns, works with the existing physical and cultural assets and introduces management measures. Specifically including the promotion of the industrial heritage of the region.
Knowledge and ICT Infrastructure
Improving the accessibility of remote areas, particularly rural parts of the region, through non-conventional transport and use of Information Communications Technology, building on the Regional ICT Strategy.
Links to other Structural Funds Programmes
Establish links between activity funded under INTERREG IIIB and the mainstream Structural Funds programmes, Objective 2 and 3.
