Counter-Urbanisation

Counter-Urbanisation

1. decline of proportion of the population living in urban areas due to people moving out of cities into rural areas

2. Causes

   • increased urban prices
   • people want to escape air pollution dirt and crime
   • want a cleaner and safer area
   • more people work from home due to increased technology
   • farms sell unwanted land due to struggle

3. Effects

   • increased value in housing in urban areas
   • increased pressure on green-belt land
   • local services close
   • older houses are converted and modernised
   • tension between new comers and locals

4. Impacts on rural areas

   • Positive
     • some services see an increase in business
       • new residents are usually professionals with high income
     • existing houses are improved and renovated
       • farmers make money selling unwanted land and buildings for development
     • local schools often close but if more people move in they can stay open
   • Negative
     • development can affect the character of rural settlements
     • rural roads and infrastructure may struggle to cope with additional traffic
       • increase in pollution
     • schools may close if the new residents are older
     • house price increase

5. Managing effects

   • developments are only allowed if they are keeping with the rest of the area - only particular materials
   • some companies offer mobile services that visit rural areas
   • local occupancy clauses on houses so locals can afford to stay in the area

6. Case Study

   • Cambridgeshire, England Population 16,340 picturesque historical town
   • many attractions, quiet suburban area, high order shopping, 15th century chapel and the St.Ives bridge
   • Many commute to london for work, others are elderly
   • housing in the area is affordable and in high demand
   • shops and services have changed due to population alterations - high status restaurants
   • pressure to increase the housing stock is greater and fuelled by demand from commuters
     • resistance to building more homes from locals as they don't want their environment changing
   • plans to expand primary schools, £8.8m flood protection along river great ouse, improved transport and plans for more affordable housing