Geographical Location of Depopulation Areas in the Czech Republic and its Dependence on Transport Infrastructure Part II: Case Studies

E. Drápela

doi:10.2478/v10158-011-0017-5

Abstract

Location of settlement in important routes of transport was always one of the key factors of its prosperity. However, in the car-oriented world of today the distance factor is not so important for many people and they prefer to live in calm rural areas. Simultaneously, many rural areas in peripheral locations are affected by the emigration of inhabitants and global decay. This study explains how good transport infrastructure should be beneficial for rural areas and how it is in reality in the Czech Republic. The study is part of a larger body of research, based on the component analysis of the localization of depopulation areas in the Czech Republic over the years 1869 - 2010. The role of transport is documented, not only by the localization of transport infrastructure, but also by the duration and orientation of the commute to work. Theories and premises are supported by quantitative analysis in all municipalities in the Czech Republic and also by three in-depth case studies, oriented more on qualitative indicators.

Highlights

If the obtained results are compared with other studies dealing with rural area marginalization problems, we find they come to similar conclusions, though through different methods
It has been proven that just the presence of transport infrastructure is insufficient to stimulate regional development; it is crucial to take into account the qualitative conditions of the infrastructure, as well as the parameters which are perceived by its users
Inhabitants of depopulated areas are characterized by lower education and qualifications and worse paid jobs, which needs to be taken into account when designing measures in order to support their mobility

Summary

Objectives

This article aimed to explain which measures may be applied in the field of transport, in order to limit the negative factors as much as possible, or even reverse them

Results

Discussion

Conclusion