Rural areas are diverse in character and face a variety of challenges and opportunities. These include the need to diversify rural economies and reduce reliance on traditional rural industries, meet the challenge of service delivery in sparsely populated areas, tackle rural deprivation, maintain viable and vibrant rural communities, ensure the supply of affordable housing and to maintain the quality of the rural environment and the services it provides to society as a whole.

ICF GHK’s experience covers the economic, environmental and social aspects of rural policy. Assignments include:

• research into the characteristics and needs of rural areas
• the development of strategies for rural economies and communities
• design and appraisal of services and policies to meet rural needs
• analysis of links between the economy and environment in rural areas
• evaluation of rural policies and programmes.