As cities grow and expand they impact on the surrounding rural areas - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 12C - 2018

For instance, the expansion of London has resulted in the encroachment of urban development into the greenbelt areas surrounding it, affecting local ecosystems.

The impact of urban expansion can be analyzed through several lenses:

1. Loss of Agricultural Land: As cities grow, farmland is often converted into residential and commercial developments. This decreases local food production and can increase food prices due to supply constraints.

2. Environmental Degradation: The spread of urban areas can lead to the destruction of natural habitats. In the case of London, the encroachment into greenbelt lands has led to the fragmentation of wildlife habitats, which affects biodiversity.

3. Infrastructure Strain: Increased population density in urban areas puts pressure on existing infrastructure, leading to congestion, pollution, and inadequate public services in both urban and adjacent rural areas.

4. Social Change: Urban expansion can lead to demographic shifts, with rural areas experiencing changes in population dynamics as residents move towards urban centers for better opportunities. This shift can sometimes result in rural depopulation and the decline of local economies.

5. Economic Impact: While urban growth can bring economic opportunities, it can also marginalize rural economies. Urban areas may attract investments and manpower away from rural regions, leading to a disparity in economic development.

In conclusion, the impact of urban expansion on surrounding rural areas is multifaceted, affecting agriculture, the environment, infrastructure, society, and economies.