An evaluation of European Union objective 2 programmes in industrial South Wales 1989-1993

This article reports on an in-depth evaluation of European Union (EU) Objective 2 Structural Funding in Industrial South Wales (ISW). The central aim of the evaluation was to assess the main results obtained during the programming period 1989-93, as part of an analytical review of the main problems that ISW confronted during the programming experience. The major strategic objectives of the programme were tackled using six subprogrammes: industrial infrastructure; communications; business development; environment; tourism; research and development/vocational education and training facilities. Despite encountering numerous problems in the evaluation process, it was estimated that the programme created 2544 direct jobs, in addition to 7500 temporary construction jobs and the creation and upgrading of a range of physical infrastructure. Although there was an economic climate of recession during much of the programming period, the programme itself was seen to have positively and significantly contributed to the restructuring and diversification of the South Wales economy. It is suggested that the 'learning processes' associated with this programming period helped to 'push' funds in subsequent programming periods from projects concerned purely with physical assets to those involving human resource development. In conclusion, it is argued that following constitutional change in Wales, the opportunity exists within ISW to further converge EU, national, regional and local policies, producing further transparency and coherence in economic planning and regeneration strategies