The Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE)
The RDPE is a seven-year programme (2007-2013) delivering money allocated to
“The Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE), with Environmental Stewardship at its heart, aims to safeguard and enhance the rural environment, improve the competitiveness of the agricultural sector and foster competitive and sustainable rural businesses and thriving rural communities.” (Defra, November 2007)
RDPE in North East England
There is a national budget of £3.9bn until 2013, of which approximately £22.5m p/a will be allocated to the agri-environment and other land management schemes in North East England. These schemes will be managed by Natural England and the Forestry Commission.
Around £8m each year is allocated to One North East to deliver the socio-economic elements of the programme in the region. This money will be targeted at making agriculture and forestry more competitive and sustainable, and to enhance opportunities in rural areas.
For more information about RDPE and how to access funding please visit the RDPE website for North East England www.rdpenortheast.co.uk
RDPE Business Support
LEADER Approach
This is a community led approach to rural development based on local needs, whether or not you are a business, your project may fit with the strategy of the Local Action Group responsible for a specific LEADER area. At least 25% of the socio-economic RDPE funding (around £1.5m per year) is delivered through the LEADER approach – a great opportunity for community-led development.
RDPE News
To subscribe for regular RDPE news updates in North East England please click here
RDPE User Guide [pdf]
(609 KB)
