Infrastructure in rural areas - an evaluation of the 'Regions in Dialogue' project in Rheinland-Pfalz.

摘要

A survey in two regions of Rheinland-Pfalz investigated local people's views of four key aspects of rural areas: attractiveness, networks and connections, mobility, and growth through tourism development. Respondents generally revealed a sense of close identification with their regions, which were seen as attractive places to live. However, factors such as poor transport links and fewer services tended to drive younger people away or discourage them from settling in rural areas, although they did indicate that they would be happy to return if there were suitable employment opportunities. Absence of broadband Internet provision, business information networks, and school-employer links was also seen as a drawback. Considerable importance was attached to good road and rail networks and accessible, affordable public transport linked to people's needs, particular those of senior citizens. There was serious concern over the disappearance of village shops, primary school closures, and reduced access to primary medical care, though possible solutions such as mobile services and E-learning were also identified. Tourism infrastructure development, particularly if linked with better marketing, was seen as a new lifeline. Without improvements in the areas indicated, rural areas cannot enjoy their full potential as attractive places to live and work.