Geographical Location of Depopulation Areas in the Czech Republic and its Dependence on Transport Infrastructure: Part I: Definition, Methodology, and Quantitative Analysis

Location of settlement at important routes of transport was always one of the key factors for its prosperity. However, in the car-oriented world of today the distance factor is not so important for many people and they prefer to live in calm rural areas. Simultaneously, many rural areas in peripheral locations are affected by the emigration of inhabitants and global decay. This study explains how good transport infrastructure should be beneficial for rural areas and how it is in reality in the Czech Republic. The study is a part of a larger work of research, based on component analysis of localization of depopulation areas in the Czech Republic between the years 1869 - 2010. The role of transport is documented not only by the localization of the transport infrastructure, but also by the duration and orientation of commuting to work. Theories and premises are supported by quantitative analysis in all municipalities in the Czech Republic and also by three in-depth case studies, oriented more on qualitative indicators.