The globalisation of world trade, structural changes to agriculture and enlargement of the EU are affecting agricultural markets, local economies in rural areas and rural communities. EU rural development policy seeks to put in place a lasting framework for guaranteeing the future prosperity of rural areas and promoting the maintenance and creation of employment by

• strengthening the agricultural and forestry sector
• improving the competitiveness of rural areas
• preserving the environment and rural heritage

The historic environment is an important asset in the economic development and regeneration of rural areas and has the potential to make an even greater contribution in the future.

The historic character of landscapes, villages and market towns creates a strong sense-of-place contributing to community cohesion and provides a major driver of the tourism which is a significant contributor to rural economies. The historic character of the countryside also underpins a quality of life which stimulates in-migration and significant inward investment.

Despite this, the historic character and local diversity of some rural landscapes and settlements has been eroded by agricultural intensification and poor quality development. Rural development projects, particularly community-based initiatives, have the potential to prevent and reverse this erosion of character and strengthen sense-of-place.

• In deprived rural areas, particularly former industrial areas, interpretation and presentation of the industrial heritage can help to stimulate the local economy
• Many traditional farm buildings are becoming functionally redundant as the economic basis of farming changes. Many have the potential to be converted to community, business or residential uses.
• Some places of worship face an uncertain future as the result of changes in rural communities and society at large. These also present opportunities for adaptive re-use.
• The distinctive character of historic market towns can provide a major asset for local businesses.
• As well as ensuring local distinctiveness is maintained, traditional craft skills provide important training and employment opportunities.
• An understanding of the character of rural settlements and local building styles will be an important factor in delivering high quality affordable rural housing which enhances local sense-of-place.

English Heritage is a stakeholder in the delivery of the Rural Development Programme for England 2007 – 13 (RDPE) administered by Defra and delivered by the Regional Development Agencies, Natural England and the Forestry Commission and through the community-based LEADER approach. All Axes of the RDPE programme, including the Environmental Stewardship Scheme under Axis 2 have the potential to make a major contribution to local communities through conservation and enhancement of their cultural heritage.