Understanding Urban Agglomerations and Metropolitan Areas
Urban Agglomerations
Some cities grow and connect with other towns, forming urban agglomerations. One type is the metropolitan area, a large urban extension surrounding a major city and encompassing several municipalities.
Characteristics of Metropolitan Areas
- Headed by a major city with high economic activity.
- Economic and social connections between the central city and surrounding areas.
- The central city provides employment and services.
- Businesses relocate to surrounding areas for more space and lower costs.
- A crucial communications network facilitates connections within the area.
- Socially diverse, often with a younger population.
- Social structures typically follow concentric circles (around the central city) or radial patterns (spreading along main roads).
Historical Development of Metropolitan Areas
Metropolitan areas began to emerge in the early 20th century in cities like Madrid and Bilbao, incorporating nearby municipalities. Between 1960 and 1975, they attracted significant migration from rural areas. These areas have since undergone major changes, including territorial expansion, population decentralization, and development of new infrastructure and services.
Planning and Management of Metropolitan Areas
Effective management of metropolitan areas involves four key aspects:
- Managing urban settlements: Controlling population density and construction, developing new centers, and preserving agricultural and recreational areas.
- Organizing economic activities: Diversifying and modernizing the economy, preventing urban decline, addressing deindustrialization, promoting decentralization of urban centers.
- Improving transportation: Ensuring efficient connections within the metropolitan area and with other cities.
- Spatial planning for undeveloped areas: Protecting agricultural land and providing ample leisure spaces.
Other Urban Agglomerations
Other forms of urban agglomerations include:
- Conurbation: An urban area formed by the parallel growth of two or more cities that eventually merge.
- Megalopolis: An extensive urban area formed when urbanization reaches a supra-regional scale.