Location Matters! Exploring Brownfields Regeneration in a Spatial Context (A Case Study of the South Moravian Region, Czech Republic)

Abstract

In this paper the authors attempt to answer the question of which location and site-specific factors have a decisive influence on the successful regeneration of brownfields. Using data from the South Moravian Region (Czech Republic), we analyze the spatial and functional distribution of brownfields, and test the correlation between the development potential of municipalities and the distribution of the brownfields that have already been regenerated. We then compare the structure and characteristics of existing and regenerated brownfields to identify significant drivers and barriers in the regeneration process. The findings indicate that regenerated brownfields are more likely located in municipalities with a higher local development potential (represented by the rate of local business activities, spatial peripherality - proximity to the regional centre and the main road network, and the quality of local infrastructure). It is also demonstrated that the large size of brownfields, their previous industrial use and the existence of contamination are not determinative barriers for regeneration if the brownfields are located in attractive areas and their ownership relations are not complicated.

Prostorni kriteriji u urbanoj obnovi industrijskih braunfild lokacija

“…In order to identify main instigators and limitations of the brownfield renewal process, authors most frequently carry out comparative analyses of spatial attributes of brownfield sites prior to and after actual renewal. Frantal et al emphasise the significance of specific spatial factors as the renewal process instigators [13]. At that, they make a distinction between three types of factors, namely: a) general factors, i.e.…”

“…its geographic position, transport connections, socio-demographic structure of local population, economic potential of the site, employment rate, and other attributes. Finally, site-specific factors are related to the size of brownfield complexes, their previous use, the number of structures/ facilities within the site, presence of infrastructure, ownership rights, and contamination level [13]. Site-specific and location factors relating to spatial features of brownfield sites are of special significance to this study.…”

“…Here, the most significant is the position of the brownfield site in urban environment. Many studies have shown that brownfield sites in city centres have a much greater development potential compared to other sites [13,14]. After analysis of brownfield sites that have been renewed in England, Longo and Campbell conclude that brownfields situated in developed areas have a greater development potential compared to sites situated in less developed areas [17].…”

“…Sites with high levels of contamination are not attractive to private investors, unless significant funding from the local or even national budget is provided to improve the situation. Nevertheless, some studies show that contamination is not a limiting factor for the renewal process if a brownfield site is situated in an attractive urban zone [13].…”

“…Industrial brownfields characterized by simple ownership structure have a greater renewal potential [13]. However, the issue of ownership of abandoned industrial complexes is quite unclear in the majority of cases.…”