Objective of regional revitalization
Regional revitalization, a policy rooted in respect for the spirit of self-help and independence and a belief that the key to local dynamism lies in the competition of ideas and innovations, aims to create sustainable communities by stimulating the local economy and generating local jobs. That is accomplished by getting communities to think and act for themselves, with the national government playing a supporting role.
Support measures for regional revitalization
Regional revitalization is now more than a program: it has been enshrined in legislation. In April 2005 the Regional Revitalization Law came into force. The law offers robust support to local community revitalization efforts rooted in the spirit of self-help and independence. For example, it establishes a new funding mechanism through an overhaul of the system of subsidies; this is designed to boost local initiative and discretion. In FY 2006 a new support mechanism is being added: the Program for Revitalizing Local Hubs of Academic Excellence, which backs up local initiatives taken in conjunction with universities and other such institutions.
Regional revitalization plans approved
Since applications for regional revitalization plans began being accepted in May 2005, a total of 810 highly original, imaginative plans have been approved (as of December 2006). The competition of ideas and innovations is thus off to a start all over Japan, injecting new life into communities.
| Regional revitalization plans approved | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Date approved | Number approved | Remarks | |
| 1st round of approvals(1) | June 17, 2005 | 374 | |
| 1st round of approvals(2) | July 19, 2005 | 79 | |
| 2nd round of approvals | November 22, 2005 | 110 | -1 (*) |
| 3rd round of approvals | March 31, 2006 | 140 | -6 (*) |
| 4th round of approvals | July 3, 2006 | 77 | |
| 5th round of approvals | November 16, 2006 | 30 | -1 (*) |
| Total | 810 | ||
(*) Plans combined as the result of a municipal merger etc.