SURREY STRUCTURE PLAN 2004 - Surrey County Council

introduction
those of transport and recreation, are different in nature
and degree from the issues faced within urban
communities. The Rural Strategy complements the
Spatial Strategy set out in this Plan and brings together
representatives of the different interests to develop
holistic solutions and to safeguard the particular
character and qualities which contribute to Surrey’s
identity.
Surrey in Europe
Spatial and transportation aspects of the European
Union (EU) policies are increasingly governed by the
European Spatial Development Perspective (ESDP) which
has been developed as an intergovernmental approach to
achieving sustainable, balanced development throughout
the Union. Rather than relying on Commission
regulations, it seeks to co-ordinate national spatial
development policies, taking account of the main
economic, demographic and environmental trends in the
EU. The UK and Surrey are also affected by EU policy and
legislation, particularly relating to a range of
environmental issues – disposal of waste, water and air
quality, noise, pollution, transport (including aviation).
across all EU territories by directing aid particularly to
those regions affected by unemployment and low Gross
Domestic Product (GDP). Following the most recent EU
enlargement to 25 members it will be predominantly
central and eastern European regions which will benefit
most directly. Although large parts of the UK, including
Surrey, are not eligible for much of this support, there
are still opportunities to bid for funding to support
projects in the fields of social policy, research and
development, and the environment. Surrey is also
eligible to bid, in association with other partners, for
funds to support transnational co-operation on spatial
planning, including exchanges of best practice.
EU funding support for regional development is
committed to reducing inequalities between regions
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surrey structure plan · 2004