The Evolution of the Economic Development Initiatives of Nonmetropolitan District Councils in England and Wales, 1980—1992

Abstract

This article examines the evolution and spatial variation in economic development policies adopted by nonmetropolitan district councils in England and Wales. Results from a recent survey reveal four distinct clusters of development strategies that range from activist to non-activist. Areas have tended to become more interventionist over time, with most district councils simply adding new programs to previous initiatives rather than starting over from scratch.