Interdependence with Rural Areas (Edexcel GCSE Geography B)
Revision Note
Written by: Bridgette Barrett
Reviewed by: Jenna Quinn
Interdependence with Rural Areas
London and the surrounding rural areas are interdependent
They rely upon each other for goods, services and labour
Goods
London depends on rural areas for the supply of food
People living in rural areas visit London for a greater selection of shops
Services
People from London use rural areas for leisure
London has a wider range of hospitals and specialist services which are used by those from rural areas
Labour
Many people travel to London every day for work from the surrounding rural areas
People in their 20s move to London for work
Economic, Social and Environmental Costs and Benefits
| Costs | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
Social | Villages become dormitory settlements with no-one there in the day: shops may close due to lack of custom | Increase in population sustains services such as schools and health centres |
Economic | Commuters use shops in London rather than local shops and businesses reducing their income | Farmers gain income from selling land or buildings for conversion |
Environmental | New housing built on Greenfield sites destroying habitats |
|
Changes in Accessible Rural Areas
Rural areas around London have experienced significant change these are both:
Economic
Social
Economic
Shops and businesses may close due to lack of customers - commuters use shops and businesses in London
Due to the growing population new businesses may locate there creating jobs
Higher incomes may attract high end shops - local residents may not be able to afford prices
Social
The population is growing due to counter-urbanisation
In 1971 Horsham had a population of 26,500, in 2021 the population was 146,800
House prices rise due to increased demand
Average house prices in Dartford are £450,800 (2022) an increase of 10% over the previous 12 months
Increased number of families may help schools stay open
Environmental
House building increases to meet demand taking up greenfield sites
In Horsham 650 new houses were built in 2021
Over 2,000 homes built in 2022 to the north of Horsham in Mowbray Village
Increases in commuter traffic causes air pollution and congestion
Increased pressure on leisure and recreation areas such as the South Downs National Park which receives 39 million visitors a year
Examiner Tips and Tricks
In your lessons you will have looked at a specific example of a rural area you need to ensure that you use that place when answering questions on this topic.
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