Sixty years after the creation of the Delegation for Territorial Planning and Regional Attractiveness (Datar), the feeling of abandonment between urban and rural areas in France remains. Despite the central role of the state in financing local authorities, both suburbs and rural areas feel neglected. The Chief Executive of the Rural Services Network, Kerry Booth, highlights the lack of government funding and the challenges faced by older people in rural communities. The aging rural population is concentrating geographically in coastal, semi-rural, or peripheral areas with limited services and transport links. The report emphasizes the difficulty in recruiting staff in the social work and domiciliary care sector and attributes it to high property prices, poor public transport, high fuel costs, and higher demands from patients. The report warns of a long-term impact on the health of these communities if the issues are not addressed. The government's NHS Long-term Workforce Plan is seen as a step, but rural areas require tailored solutions and funding for infrastructure, including reliable public transport, affordable housing, digital connectivity, and a thriving local economy. The article discusses the history of territorial planning in France and the ongoing battle for resources between different regions. It also highlights the need for better organization and coordination between the European Union, the state, and local authorities. Experts argue that the state should focus on core responsibilities and major projects like the Grand Paris, while local issues should be addressed at the local level. The article also mentions the challenges faced by disadvantaged neighborhoods and the perception of failure on the part of the Republic in addressing the root causes of their problems. It briefly mentions the existence of tax exemptions for businesses in economically fragile areas and provides some statistics on the number of communes and the cost of these programs. Overall, the article explores the persistent sense of abandonment felt by different territories in France and the need for more effective governance and resource allocation. The article calls for action from the government to address the challenges faced by rural communities.
In a personal reflection on the author's experience living in the Val-de-Fontenay neighborhood of Fontenay-sous-Bois, France, Matthieu Mével explores the concept of attachment to place and discusses the urban development and history of the area. The author interviews local residents and officials to gain insights into the community. The article touches on themes of identity, belonging, and the changing nature of cities [ce6c19a8].