Across Europe, regional development agencies (RDAs) have become a central feature of regional policy, both as innovative policy-makers and as the implementers of programmes and initiatives originating from the national or European level. By drawing on a combination of conceptual reflection, surveys, comparative research, and systematic use of critical case studies, this book provides a new point of reference by identifying key features of the current, and, indeed next, generation of regionally-based economic development organisations.

Tourism is a central part of regional development strategies in many localities around Europe, not just in traditional coastal or mountain resorts but also in areas without a strong track record with regard to visitor economy. In a globalising world, destinations can no longer take their traditional visitors for granted and escape growing competitive pressures, because increasingly experienced, specialised and demanding travellers now have a vastly greater number of potential destinations to choose from. Both well-established and emerging tourist destinations are therefore under pressure...