In April 2024, Capita published a Rural Economy Feasibility and Baseline Study made possible by funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, to provide Fylde Council with a better understanding of its rural economy.
The overarching purpose of the Rural Economy Feasibility and Baseline Study was to provide a strong and comprehensive evidence base for the economic health of the rural areas within the Fylde by identifying strengths and weaknesses on a range of economic and business indicators.
The study found that Rural Fylde performs above or in line with the local, regional, and national averages on a range of economic metrics, including employment, income, digital infrastructure, and socio-economic deprivation. It highlights that Rural Fylde’s threats and weaknesses are typical of rural areas, including distance from large markets and an ageing population.
The report provides recommendations for future investment and funding decisions, defines the rural economy for Fylde, and establishes objectives for investment in the rural economy moving forward.
You can read the full report here.
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus
