Rural Economy

By definition, rural land accounts for approximately 25% of Greater Manchester’s landmass. Greater Manchester also has a significant area of uplands concentrated in Rochdale and Oldham, with direct access to the Peak District National Park, Greater Manchester also supports two community forests.

Tourism is an important industry within the sub-region with many farm businesses gaining a significant proportion of income from tourism and recreation. There still, however, remain rural areas in Greater Manchester that are less developed in terms of tourism and leisure but with the potential to take advantage of assets such as long distance walks, wildlife and biodiversity, historical features and recreational opportunities, especially in the urban fringe areas. A vibrant and accessible countryside is important for the environment and the quality of life. It supports the tourism industry and enhances our image as a clean and healthy sub-region.

By supporting the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) in the delivery of the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) we strive to improve the economic development of the defined rural areas of Greater Manchester with dedicated business, grant and training actions.