The impact of growth centres in rural regions—I.

Moseley M. J. (1972) The impact of growth centres in rural regions—I. An analysis of spatial “patterns” in Brittany, Reg. Studies 7, 57–75. The paper examines the notion that growth centres induce further development and higher levels of prosperity over an extensive geographical area. Hypotheses are tested which relate the level of development within part of Brittany to proximity to Rennes and to certain smaller centres. Regression and trend surface analyses suggest that the “upward transitional area” around Rennes is essentially confined to the latter's commuting hinterland—within a radius of 20–25 km. Thus doubts are cast on the ability of out-migration effectively to improve living standards in the more peripheral areas and upon the optimism often expressed for the “trickle down” development processes.