4A.4 Economic disparity with case studies

Typical experiences in thriving regions

Better education, healthcare and quality of life

Typical qualities in declining regions

Brain drain, deteriorating infrastructure and social unrest

→ perpetuating cycle

Palo Alto, Silicon Valley vs rust belt

Silicon Valley: innovation, high employment and high pay

→ rapid growth, inward migration, low level of multiple deprivation

BUT skyrocketing property price and shortage of skilled workers

Rust belt: decline due to globalisation and automation

→ job losses, increased poverty, SPIRAL OF DECLINE

Reading vs Middlesbrough

Reading: robust, high employment, attract major firms and skilled professionals

→ rising housing costs and income inequality

Middlesbrough: high unemployment, skills mismatch, cycle of disadvantage