Rural Development Service (RDS)

Click to select a Region General view of Clun ESA, nr Newcastle on Clun, Shropshire (Photo credit: Anthony Phillips)

Introduction

RDS is at the forefront of change in rural areas. We provide integrated rural economic and environmental services, and are the largest deliverer of the England Rural Development Programme (ERDP). We also deliver a range of statutory services such as policy advice on land and wildlife management.

We work with rural partners and local people to achieve:

• Environmental enhancement;
• Better conservation of wildlife and biodiversity;
• Stronger rural economies and communities.

RDS is locally based to provide a face-to-face service to our customers.

Our Aim

Making sustainable development happen in rural areas.

The Role of RDS

RDS has around 1400 staff working from 8 regional offices leading the delivery of the ERDP. Staff skills range from an expertise in environmental enhancement, wildlife conservation and rural economy, through to the administration of a multi-million pound grant budget. This makes the RDS the single largest organisation working in rural communities in England.

England Rural Development Programme (ERDP)

The ERDP comprises ten separate but integrated schemes designed to help the rural community protect the countryside and adapt to the demands of an increasingly competitive rural economy.

Non-ERDP Schemes

RDS is also responsible for the delivery of other non-ERDP schemes.

Other Rural Services

RDS also delivers a wide range of related rural services.

Policy advice

Our technical and scheme management experts work closely with many policy divisions within Defra, providing advice on a wide range of environmental, agricultural, economic and social issues to assist in the development of sound and practical policies and schemes. We also advise on associated research and the monitoring and evaluation of schemes. Much of this involves working closely with, and co-ordinating inputs from, partner organisations and agencies. Some of our specialists are increasingly involved in representing and supporting Defra at international level.

The Strategy for Sustainable Farming and Food

The Strategy for Sustainable Farming and Food builds on the vision of Sir Donald Curry's 2002 Policy Commission Report.

Our Commitment to Customer Service

RDS is a customer focused organisation dedicated to recognising and realising our customers' needs through our commitment to customer service.