Cabinet were advised that the Merseyside Rural Economy Steering Group had recently been established, bringing together the 6 Greater Merseyside Local Authorities, with St Helens as the lead. The aim of the group was to establish a clear evidence base of rural economic opportunities and challenges; to agree a common understanding of rural economic programmes and funding opportunities; and to understand the specific issues of each individual local authority.

Members were requested to approve a one-off contribution of £10,000 from Wirral towards developing the Merseyside Rural Economy evidence base, strategy and action plan implementation.

Resolved - That a one-off contribution of £10,000 from Wirral towards developing the Merseyside Rural Economy evidence base, Strategy and action plan implementation be approved.