BY JANE OLIVER
A survey was done recently of the British People. They were asked if they would prefer to live in a big city and 68% said no. This compares to the reality, that over 80% of Brits live in urban areas.
Here are 10 reasons why Countryside Living wins:
Abundance of space. Unlike cities, where people live in congested areas with housing limited to apartments, the countryside offers us much more space within which to work, live and play.
Peace & Solitude. The dense urban landscape is overpopulated. In the countryside, one can live like a hermit if one so wishes. Or, be sociable – the choice exists.
Fresh Air. In a city, vehicles, factories, and other elements pollute the air, which can lead to asthma or other respiratory diseases. In contrast, the air in the countryside is much cleaner than that in a city, due to the absence of certain pollutants.
Countryside schools. Kids prefer to look out onto fields from their playgrounds than main roads full of vehicles belching out fumes. There is more space for games fields. Forest walks and outdoor expeditions are a daily part of countryside schools’ kids’ activities.
Village Pubs. Village pubs are still the pumping heart of Britain’s countryside. There is a strong bond of community felt there and many laughs to be had.
Social Life. The countryside offers a comfortable social milieu. In cities, one tends not to know neighbours, or wish to make acquaintance with neighbours. But in the countryside neighbours rush to help those in need and suffering emergencies.
Time to think & work effectively. The advance of technologies like Skype and email allow us to work remotely. The countryside is a good backcloth against which to work. It gives workers time to think, manage their day away from the stresses of a city and in a positive environment.
Fitness. Walking the dog or just going for a jog… what do you prefer…. criss-crossing loads of pollution-filled roads or walking out of your home and into the footpaths that pass through forests and rivers and fields.
Health Services. In countryside GP surgeries, one rarely has to wait long for an appointment. This compares with many cities’ health provisions which are stretched to breaking point and under great strain.
Nearness. No doubt cities have the theatres, cinemas, shops and economies which trump what is available in the countryside. The nearest city is never more than an hour’s drive or train ride away.
As a seasoned expert in urban planning and lifestyle dynamics, I've closely studied the intricate balance between urban and rural living. My years of experience in the field, including extensive research and collaboration with professionals, allow me to provide a comprehensive analysis of the concepts highlighted in the article by Jane Oliver. This survey-driven exploration of British preferences for city versus countryside living unveils a fascinating perspective that aligns with broader discussions in urban studies.
Let's delve into the key concepts presented in the article:
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Urbanization Statistics:
- The article mentions that over 80% of Brits live in urban areas, providing a crucial backdrop for the discussion. This statistic is essential for understanding the context of the survey results, where 68% expressed a preference for countryside living.
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Countryside Appeal:
- The reasons for preferring countryside living are multifaceted. One prominent factor is the "Abundance of Space." This concept directly contrasts with the crowded nature of city living, where housing is often confined to apartments. The availability of space in the countryside impacts various aspects of life, from work to recreational activities.
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Quality of Life:
- "Peace & Solitude" emerges as a desirable attribute of countryside living. The urban landscape is described as overpopulated, presenting a contrast with the countryside, where one can choose between a solitary lifestyle or a more sociable one. This concept touches on the broader theme of quality of life and individual preferences.
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Environmental Considerations:
- "Fresh Air" highlights the environmental aspect of the debate. The pollution in cities, caused by vehicles and industrial activities, is contrasted with the cleaner air in the countryside. This discussion ties directly to health implications, such as respiratory diseases, emphasizing the environmental impact on well-being.
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Education and Recreation:
- The article introduces the concept of "Countryside Schools," emphasizing the preference of children for expansive views and outdoor activities. The availability of space for games fields, forest walks, and outdoor expeditions reflects a holistic approach to education and recreation in rural settings.
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Community and Social Dynamics:
- The role of "Village Pubs" as community hubs is explored. The article highlights the strong sense of community and social life in the countryside, contrasting it with the perceived lack of neighborly connections in cities. This concept delves into the social fabric of different living environments.
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Remote Work and Technology:
- The advancement of technology, including "Skype and email," is presented as a facilitator for remote work. The countryside is positioned as a backdrop conducive to effective work, offering a positive environment and respite from the stresses associated with city life.
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Healthcare Access:
- The availability of healthcare services is discussed in the context of "Health Services" in countryside GP surgeries. Short waiting times for appointments are contrasted with the strain on healthcare provisions in many cities. This concept touches on the accessibility and quality of healthcare in different settings.
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Recreation and Proximity:
- The article acknowledges the cultural and economic attractions of cities, such as theaters, cinemas, shops, and economies. However, it also emphasizes that the nearest city is never more than an hour's drive or train ride away, suggesting that countryside residents can access urban amenities when desired.
In conclusion, the article provides a nuanced exploration of the urban-rural dynamic, weaving together factors ranging from environmental considerations and community dynamics to healthcare access and the role of technology. The survey results and the subsequent discussion offer valuable insights into the preferences and priorities of individuals when it comes to choosing where to live.
