Region in Industrial Decline

Ex: Nord in France

Background

1950's - Decline

Coal was almost exhausted after 1950
Oil & gas were more in demand / better energy source
Textiles declined.....competition from Asia (Hong Kong & Taiwan)...Cheaper labour costs
Aluminium & plastic began to take over from steel as a popular material
Unemployment rose to 16% in Nord
Brain drain.....outward migration of young people to cities like Paris
Area became known as a 'rust belt'.....scarring & disused machinery

Redevelopment of Nord

French government - Taken major steps
Workers upskilled - Retrained in modern skills
Car assembly plants set up - Tradition in France (Ex: Peugot / Renault)
Lille City - Attracted many healthcare & IT jobs
Lille is on the TGV line - Linked up with London via Channel Tunnel - Major Boost for the area
Lille has been given a makeover

As you can see, Nord is an area that has suffered economic decline but has recovered and is currently diversifying into new modern industries.

	Created by aileen Mc about 10 years ago

High School Diploma Leaving Cert Geography Note on Nord - Industrial Decline, created by aileen Mc on 27/02/2014.