The directions in development for small towns in Podkarpacie considering the contemporary needs of their inhabitants

Justyna Kobylarczyk,D Słyś,J Dziopk

doi:10.1051/e3sconf/20184500031

Abstract

The article presents three challenges. It focuses on the issue of small towns in the Podkarpacie region, which until recently was perceived as an area of stagnation. Today its potential is becoming increasingly recognised as a result of, among others, landscape values, pro-health and environmental conditions, natural resources, the good condition of the natural environment and the low pollution of air and waters.The second trend concerns small urban centres which, because of limited access to services, including important centres and jobs, are more difficult to promote as significant for the development of city tourism. Very often, they remain in the shadow of larger urban centres, unable to specialise in a given function. The opinion of their residents on housing conditions as well as the needs directed to an inhabited area is another important issue for determining the directions of development for small towns, which is another research problem of the paper.The article presents the results of sociological research carried out in selected urban centres. They concern the assessment of the quality of the residential environment made by respondents - the residents. Their opinion undoubtedly influences the determination of the directions in development for the cities indicated for research

Highlights

In order to adapt to all the needs of users, the city, being the most inhabited area of residence, undergoes many transformations
It seems that today small towns can be perceived as an attractive place of residence for modern man
It should be emphasised that apart from the most apparent values, such as the proximity of the natural environment or beautiful landscape, small urban centres have their unique character built by the atmosphere – a cameral mood, slower pace of life, intimacy and valuable architectural objects

Summary

The contemporary role of the city

A city is a primary place in the life of man. Each of the urban centres strives for progress, as evidenced by the prospect of spatial development. The priority of the cities is sustainable and balanced development, spatial and social cohesion with a respect for history, identity and the culture of the place These actions are aimed at ensuring comfortable living conditions - a higher standard of living and access to attractive spaces and architectural structures. Because of the ongoing changes to the natural environment, such as climate conditions, we face an obligation to prevent its destructive transformations This approach is expressed by the principles of sustainable development that counteract the social and economic crisis [3]. Another critical challenge for European cities is to strive for the spatial cohesion of these centres forming polycentric networks with harmonious management. The advantage of small urban centres is their intimate atmosphere, quietness and peace

Small cities in Podkarpacie - directions of development

Needs of the residents of small urban centres of Podkarpackie Voivodeship

Conclusions

Findings

Data provided by the Statistical Office iR rzeszów