Rural Regeneration Unit

The Rural Regeneration Unit (RRU) is a new and independent organisation dedicated to finding practical and progressive solutions to the problems and challenges facing rural communities. It is already at the cutting edge of designing, developing and implementing practical activities that have a direct positive impact on rural economy and society. Through the next three years, it plans to expand its core operations to different parts of the UK, and share its experience with others across the European Union.

In the broadest sense, the RRU is an educational operation. It seeks to inform, enable and empower rural communities to be self-reliant and entrepreneurial. We believe this is best done in partnership with urban communities, particularly those that are disadvantaged. In particular, we belief that the urban-rural divide is one of understanding that can best be bridged by projects which bring the communities together in a way that creates tangible and real benefits to both.

The RRU is action orientated – with its action grounded in public policy that, in turn, it aims to help shape. The RRU has both project implementation and policy advice capabilities. These facilities are underpinned by an extensive interface with European, national, regional, and local government and agencies, a state-of-the-art IT-based rural communications network, which ensures the exchange of information, advice, and self-help amongst rural communities across the UK.

The RRU is politically and financially non-aligned. As an independent organisation it wishes to collaborate with all existing agencies and bodies, and will seek funding for its diverse range of social and educational projects from all relevant public and private sector grant-aid bodies, authorities and trusts.

The RRU is a not-for-profit company, with its shares held in trust and with its own independent Board of directors.