Rural Evidence

As part of the Rural Priorities Group, the RCC is working in partnership with the Isle of Wight Council, Isle of Wight Economic Partnership and Isle of Wight AONB Partnership to develop a better understanding of the Island's rural area and its needs.

This group has drafted a 'State of the Rural Wight' report which can be downloaded directly here and currently out to consultation. Being the first time that an attempt has been made to analyse and describe the economy, environment and community of the Rural Wight, this document raises a number of questions and points for debate. The evidence collated has already been used to support the Island's bid for grant funding for the LEADER programme and Rural Access to Services Programme.
By having a particular focus on communities in the rural area, the RCC will continue to contribute to the development of a definitive picture of the Rural Wight both as part of the Rural Priorities Group and in other wider partnership approaches. We will then use this as the basis of our work to champion rural issues and help rural communities.
As information becomes available we will post it on this website.
Rural Research lead – John Brownscombe
For more information contact john.brownscombe@iwrcc.org.uk