Scholarly record

THE RURAL - URBAN INTERACTION IN ZEMGALE REGION, LATVIA

Zane Vitolina

Abstract

Collecting the development of historical theories, it must be concluded that first studies in the field of urban?rural interaction were analysed within the model of centre? periphery while the interaction of both 21st century theories are valued as an important part of polycentric spatial development. Although for the last 15 years scientists have actively focused on studies about urban?rural interaction and partnership, mainly just separate aspects have been studied, for instance, employment, migration, flow of goods and services and environment issues, but there are relatively few scientists, who have focused on complex analysis of urban?rural interaction and defining of notions. The aim of the research: to evaluate the urban?rural linkages and interaction in the Zemgale region of Latvia. When assessing the interaction between rural and urban areas, one can conclude, that the most important linkages are related to the lack of public services in rural areas. Respondents agree that cities affect rural areas and vice versa. They point out that cities provide what people often cannot receive in rural areas ? a wider range of services that are at the same time concentrated in the same area, thus easily achievable, cultural opportunities, job or better pay opportunities. Rural areas, in turn, are an essential tourist destination, a recreational and recreational area. Rural areas are a potential destination for urban populations, but there are gaps in areas that need to be addressed in order to motivate citizens to stay in rural areas and to stay in residence. In development planning strategies, the cooperation between cities and rural areas is referred to in recommendations. It is stipulated that cooperation contributes to the development of the territory, but it does not make it compulsory to establish or specify the directions and ways to ensure it. Accordingly, the voluntary initiative of municipalities is of great importance. On the other hand, municipalities are not always motivated to cooperate in the impact of existing competition between territories.

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