National Evaluation of the English ERDF 2014-20 Programme Phase 1 Report: Process Review

This document describes an evaluation of the 2014-2020 European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) programme in England, focusing on its design, governance, strategic management, and monitoring processes. The evaluation, which included stakeholder consultations, aimed to inform improvements and future initiatives. It found that the ERDF programme met its key targets and established effective processes, but suggested enhancements in flexibility, planning time, and local expertise utilization. The evaluation highlighted the role of local ESIF sub-committees and the Growth Programme Board in decision-making and governance, despite some challenges. Feedback from applicants and managing authority staff revealed satisfaction with project quality but identified issues with the appraisal process, complexity, and communication. The compliance and audit process was effective, with a low non-compliance rate. Recommendations for future programmes include simplifying funding allocations, enhancing local strategy development, improving access to expertise, and streamlining processes for better project delivery and impact. **This summary was written by an AI model and therefore should not be considered a definitive summary of the report. If you are aware of inaccuracies, please email evaluation.registry@cabinetoffice.gov.uk.**

Description

• Lead department: Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government
• Evaluation stage: A complete evaluation report
• Other departments: No other departments listed
• Evaluation types: Process evaluation
• Process methods: Individual interviews; Other; Surveys and polling
• Grant information: This intervention is not distributing funding via a grant
• Government Major Project information: This intervention is not a major project
• Policies: No policies provided

Event Dates

• Event Name: Publication of final results
• Event date: July 2019

Evaluation Costs

• Cost: Not provided

Evaluation sharing

• Link(s) to published report(s): Yes
• Links to evaluation plans: No link provided
• Findings: Not provided
• Permission to share confirmed: Yes