“EU Report Highlights the Role of Social Infrastructure in Community Cohesion”
London, UK – A pivotal study conducted by Redhills Durham and researchers from University College London (UCL) has been featured in a major report on the future of the European Union’s (EU) Cohesion Policy. The report, titled “Forging a Sustainable Future Together,” was recently accepted and endorsed by the High-Level Group on the Future of Cohesion Policy, chaired by Professor Andrés Rodríguez-Pose of the London School of Economics.
The EU Cohesion Policy, valued at €352 billion for the period 2021-2027, aims to reduce regional disparities and promote balanced development across member states. The High-Level Group’s report outlines principles for the future reform of Cohesion Policy, emphasizing the role of social infrastructure in achieving sustainable and inclusive development.
The study, which delves into the importance of social infrastructure in fostering community cohesion, focuses on Sacriston, a former mining village in County Durham. The research findings have been cited in the report to advocate for EU investment in social infrastructure in less developed regions.
Professor John Tomaney of UCL, who serves as the chair of Redhills Durham and played a key role in the research, highlighted the significance of social infrastructure in building community cohesion. In his testimony before the House of Lords Built Environment Committee on February 20th, 2024, he advocated for investing in social infrastructure to address the challenges faced by declining high streets. The Sacriston study provided valuable insights, reinforcing the importance of these investments.
Not only is the research making an impact in academic circles, but it is also actively shaping the development of Redhills community networks in the former Durham coalfield. Through this collaboration, the study aims to bridge the gap between research findings and practical applications, contributing to the revitalization and sustainability of local communities.
The comprehensive research findings can be accessed freely on the UCL website. Additionally, a recently published book titled “Social Infrastructure in Left-Behind Places” further expands on the research, providing an in-depth exploration of its implications and applications.
For more information, please contact Redhills Durham or visit their website.
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of Redhills Durham, on Monday 4 March, 2024. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/.
