The Economic Development Role of English RDAs: The Need for Greater Discretionary Power

In the late 1990s Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) were introduced into the English economic development policy and partnership landscape. Cited as a way in which to improve regional competitiveness and innovation, their task is to build institutional capacity by creating a strategic context for sub-regional organizations and fostering partnerships. This article examines developing inter-institutional relations between RDAs, sub-regional organizations and central government departments in the field of learning and skills, business support and inward investment. It suggests that a lack of discretionary power and resources has undermined RDA ability to pursue their strategic aims and influence other organizations. In response, RDAs have concentrated on particular activities and developed relations with certain partners.