’People prefer living instead of making something develop’ asserted Balázs Szepesi, strategic director of HETFA at the community development conference in Tolna county. He presented development plans and needs collected on the basis of the Tolna County Regional Development Concept. These plans aim to guarantee that the use of EU funds between 2014 and 2020 will result in an improved liveability of local settlements.
Plans have to be harmonized with local needs, national perspectives and EU regulations. As regards the economy, improvement of competitiveness, exploitation of opportunities, and the establishment of local products’ market are of utmost importance. Additionally, actions are also necessitated regarding the amelioration of governmental activities at local level including the infrastructure of institutions, public relations and public services. Thirdly, the aspects of sustainability can hardly be ignored with a special view on the stability of social relations, natural environment, as well, as energy efficiency.