An Exodus From England's Cities

As land prices climb and density increases, urban residents in England are increasingly moving to the countryside.

1 minute read

December 20, 2004, 7:00 AM PST

By Chris Steins @planetizen


"Britain is now believed to be the only country in Europe that has a net migration out of, rather than into, its cities. Good rail connections, the high price of city homes, a quest for a better life, and Britons' inbred love of the countryside are some of the explanations offered for the exodus.

Although the newcomers may bring a needed dollop of vitality to the countryside and in some cases create businesses and jobs, they also push up real estate prices for longtime residents. Some villages have ceased to be real communities; rather, they have become picture-book places inhabited by people who commute elsewhere for work and don't take an active role in local life."

Thanks to Chris Steins

Wednesday, October 26, 2005 in The Los Angeles Times

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