The socio-economic transformation of the Katowice conurbation in Poland

Abstract

This chapter discusses the socio-economic and spatial changes of the (post-)industrial Katowice conurbation, Poland. The Katowice conurbation developed in the 19th and 20th centuries as one of the largest mining and industrial regions in Europe. The conurbation is also known as Upper Silesia. There are 54 communes in the region, and the population is ca. 2.4 million. The chapter indicates the multifaceted consequences of the region’s changes, both favourable and negative. The most important aspects of changes that occurred in the Katowice conurbation after 1989 included the increased role of the service sector, socio-economic restructuring and modernisation, as well as the liquidation of a significant part of the traditional industry (i.e. mining, metallurgy, textile production). Economic and political changes also significantly affected the demographic and social situation (i.e. depopulation, population aging, urban shrinkage). There are also a number of important spatial and environmental problems, including polycentricity, functionally derelict areas, spatial conflicts and environmental pollution.