Problems of Planning in Rural Areas

Abstract

In this report the author analyses the state of European planning in rural areas from the viewpoint of the changing socio-economic situation and presents some problems. Planning for rural areas has so far been mainly composed of economic factors which have been imposed from outside. It could also be within the scope of 'physical planning'. But in a period of economic stagnation it becomes hard to achieve the physical planning targets, so that planning in rural areas needs to adapt toward comprehensive development planning. Rural planning should be based on a clear understanding of rural problems so as to avoid it becoming a measure to encourage the subordinate position of rural areas to urban ones.