Consistent with this purpose, the project implementation plan acknowledged the desire of the partners to work in new and innovative ways to help overcome the development obstacles that vulnerable rural communities face in the context of  the need to protect the special qualities of the National Park. The project was given the following aim and outcomes:

Aim

To develop a methodology or process which will involve communities in planning and make a demonstrable difference to their lives?

Outcomes

·         An accepted methodology or process for using community plans / surveys amongst planners and decision makers to ensure community needs are formally included in the planning process across the National Park and beyond;

·         Quicker decisions to help progress community led ideas that arise from plans;

·         Quicker implementation of community led projects and plans.

Both 5 Rivers and South Copeland were selected as pilot areas for this project which has resulted in a dedicated coordinator to support both groups in achieving their aims and aspirations. It has also helped develop a structure and a mechanism for community engagement that Copeland Borough consider to be of value when determining a locality working model designed to support those groups in implementing their community led projects and plans.