THE Commission for Rural Communities is examining how Local Enterprise Partnerships are recognising rural interests.

It has issued a call for evidence to gain an understanding of the progress made by LEPs since their inception.

First, the commission is seeking people's views on the top five priorities that would make a difference to improving the inclusion of rural areas within the work of LEPs.

Secondly, it would like to hear about the different ways rural interests are being recognised by LEPs.

In particular, the commission would like to hear evidence from Local Enterprise Partnerships, the business community, and those operating in the public and voluntary and community sector

Information received will be used as the basis for a workshop for LEPs and others representing rural businesses and communities, and government departments.

This will be on a date to be confirmed in Autumn 2012.

The workshop will provide an opportunity for LEPs to showcase the positive work they are doing in their rural areas. It will also be a chance for attendees to discuss the issues and barriers they are facing in including rural areas within the work of LEPs.

The closing date for information to be received is the 29 June 2012.

The call for evidence can be found by clicking here (pdf).

For more information, contact [email protected]