Hampshire and the Solent is characterised by a distinctive and complex geography. The south of the region is defined by densely populated urban areas and 290 miles of coastline, including 60 miles around the Isle of Wight. The region is also home to vibrant market towns and villages and extensive rural landscapes. About 75% of the Hampshire county geography is classified as rural, as is more than 85% of the Isle of Wight, our region’s unique island community.
Hampshire and the Solent’s coastal and rural environments include two National Parks, a UNESCO Biosphere covering the Isle of Wight, and 362 Sites of Special Scientific Interest for rare flora and fauna. Coastal and rural environments also shape some of the region’s core economic strengths, such as tourism, agriculture and marine sectors and the wider green economy. The Solent is recognised as one of the busiest coastal zones in England, reflecting its strategic position for shipping, defence, marine industries and recreation. The region’s rural neighbourhoods generated approximately £9.8 billion in GVA in 2023, which accounted for more than one in every eight pounds produced across Hampshire and the Solent.
However, despite the region’s strong economy, Hampshire and the Solent’s coastal and rural communities can face similar challenges experienced by other rural and coastal locations across the UK, such as ageing demographics, health and economic inequalities, and weaker transport and digital infrastructure.
‘Rural affairs and coastal communities’ was a late addition to the list of strategic authority competencies in the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026. The HSCCA does not currently have dedicated powers or responsibilities in this area of competency but has a responsibility to consider the issues and needs specific to these communities in its wider decision-making.
If the Government publishes guidance on how strategic authorities could act on this core competency, HSCCA Board Members will be notified as soon as practicable.