4A.4 Economic disparity with case studies

Typical experiences in thriving regions

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