Changes in rural landscapes through economic activity
Traditionally, economic activity has taken place in UK towns and cities. However, The word that describes places that are in the countryside, outside built-up areas. landscapes are also increasingly being used for, or being affected by, economic activity.
Elmbridge, Surrey
Elmbridge in Surrey is a rural borough with an expanding population.
Elmbridge is a semi-rural area containing the settlements of Weybridge, Cobham, Walton-on-Thames and Esher. It is a 25 minute commute from London and is well connected with the M3 and M25, making it an ideal place for commuters to live away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The influx of people into the area has led to many social and economic changes:
- Many people in their 30s have moved into the area, many of whom have young children. This has reduced the average age of residents and led to a greater demand for school places.
- Over 20% of people living in Elmbridge commute into London, leaving many towns and villages empty during the daytime.
- Average incomes in Elmbridge far exceed national averages, with residents earning more than 拢1,000 per week. They have a high disposable income, which has brought money into the area.
- House prices are more expensive than anywhere else in the county of Surrey. Average house prices have risen to over 拢591,000 (in 2015). Many poorer people cannot afford to pay these prices.
Tibenham, Norfolk
Tibenham in Norfolk is a rural county with a declining population.
Tibenham is a rural area to the south west of Norwich. It has no major motorways and few major roads nearby. The In industry, the process of introducing machines to carry out tasks that humans used to do. of farming techniques has led to fewer jobs. This has led to depopulation as people have moved away to find work.
The movement of people from the area has led to many social and economic changes:
- Many people in their 30s have moved away from the area. The only school left is a primary school with just a few teachers and pupils between the ages of 5-11. 37% of the population have fewer than five GCSEs (as of 2015).
- The average age of residents is much higher than national averages. The largest age group of residents is the 45 鈥 59 bracket.
- The population has declined from a peak of over 600 in the 1900s, to around 450.
- Local shops and services have closed, leaving just one pub in the village.
- Average house prices are 拢202,000 (in 2015), which is 46% lower than 2012 prices and lower than surrounding areas.