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The Story so far, 1999 – present

A brief history of transport projects within RCCE and details of the current Linking Communities Project.

The Essex Rural Transport Partnership (ERTP) was established in April 1999 and was among one of the first Rural Transport Partnerships to be formed in the country. The ERTP was set up as a voluntary sector led initiative bringing together the statutory, community and voluntary sectors. The Rural Community Council of Essex was the lead partner and host organisation for the ERTP co-ordinator.

The ERTP was established with the intention of alleviating social exclusion throughout rural Essex by providing a forum for the solving of rural transport problems and supporting transport initiatives, which serve the accessibility needs of rural communities.

Over the years the main method used to achieve this aim was to channel Countryside Agency funding into innovative transport schemes that were able to provide better access to key services and opportunities for those in rural areas. As well as funding projects that promote and facilitate independent living and social inclusion, the ERTP has also encouraged transport schemes that enable rural regeneration and community viability.

As of March 2006 Linking Communities, a new project which has stemmed from the over-riding success of the Essex Rural Transport Partnership (ERTP), was launched to address many of the key priorities set by the ERTP. The new project continues to enhance rural transport services and has the focus to develop partnerships and facilitate projects that improve access to employment, education, health and leisure facilities, and that enhance other essential services in rural areas.

As with ERTP the main priorities will be achieved by working closely with local communities to identify needs, particularly the needs of disadvantaged and socially excluded individuals, and to find solutions that address these needs.