Regions for Economic Change: URBACT Fast Track Networks Alexander FERSTL, European Commission, DG REGIO - Directorate for Policy Development Brussels, Regions for Economic Change Conference, 20 May 2010

Regions for Economic Change What are the key elements? A new approach in testing best practice for economic modernisation A policy priority within cohesion policy Connecting networks (URBACT, Interreg IVC) and operational programmes (ERDF, ESF) within cohesion policy (and beyond) Focus on 30 themes (7 “urban” topics)

Fast track networks Main tool for implementing Regions for Economic Change Networks from URBACT and Interreg IVC are „labelled“ by the European Commission - „enhanced partnerships“ between different levels (EU, national, regional, local) are established Two-way-bridge – Networks need to implement concrete actions (Local Action Plans) and co-operate closely with Managing Authorities Commission Services support – Expertise from relevant Commission Services Communication and information – Networks in the „European spotlight“

URBACT Fast Track Networks RfEC Theme URBACT II Thematic Networks with Fast Track Label DGs involved 1. Healthy communities Building Healthy Communities SANCO (REGIO) 2. Integrated policies on urban transport - 3. Sustainable & energy efficient housing stock CASH REGIO (TREN) 4. Marginalised youth InteGrow EAC 5. Managing migration Open Cities MILE (closed) Roma-net REGIO (EMPL, JLS) REGIO (JLS, EMPL) REGIO and EMPL 6. Sustainable urban development UNIC HerO RegGov URBAMECO (closed) REGIO (ENTR, EAC) REGIO (ENV, EAC) REGIO (EMPL) REGIO (EMPL, ENV) 7. Brownfields & waste disposal sites 4

Where are we... ...with the fast track networks? 2 pilot networks closed Positive experience, good links to Managing Authorities (MA) and Operational Programmes (OP), “spill-overs”, European dimension 5 networks are starting to implement their LAPs All are making significant progress and are accompanied by the Commission Involvement of MAs and links to OPs vary 3 networks are awaiting the financing decision and are only about to start working Early agreements with MAs will be vital

Where are we... ...beyond the fast track networks? „Regions for Economic Change“ approach shaped the URBACT programme Involvement of Managing Authorities Local Action Plans – orientation towards implementation Close co-operation between URBACT JTS and the Commission Methodology as a blue-print for future co-operation activities?