(UR) Pressures in rural areas

Question 1

reasons for population decline in some rural areas

Answer 1

-less job opportunities; farming has more competition from abroad or is seasonal

• shortage of suitable homes
• second home buyers push locals out of the price bracket
• urban areas have a wider variety of housing
• expensive housing
• shops close and people can’t buy essentials
• not enough access to entertainment facilities
• closure of local schools

-increased costs of public transport

• loss of community spirit
• people dislike living in the village

Question 2

reasons for population increase in some rural areas

Answer 2

• less traffic/congestion
• less pollution
• good transport links allow people to easily get to the city
• ability to commute to work or work from home

-green spaces/leisure activities

• lower density housing and bigger houses
• housing in urban areas has less parking than rural areas
• safer environment; lower percieved crime rate
• elderly/retired people don’t need to be close to work
• less noise pollution, fewer people