An index of rurality for England and Wales

TLDR

The study builds on Cloke’s 1977 work on rurality indices for England and Wales. The index is constructed by selecting discriminating variables and applying principal components analysis, then classifying areas into four rurality categories to highlight remote and highly urbanised regions. The index proves useful for comparing rural areas and standardising planning solutions, and provides insights into rural change patterns and the evolving nature of rurality. Referenced studies 11, 41–46.

Abstract

Cloke P. J. (1977) An index of rurality for England and Wales, Reg. Studies 11, 41–46. Rurality is defined in terms of selected discriminating variables, from which an index of rurality is formulated using principal components analysis. Distributions of four classifications of rurality are presented and both problematical remote rural areas and those suffering extreme urban pressure are identified. Data generated by the index formulation is found to be both a useful tool for studies involving comparison or contrast between rural areas, and an aid to the possible standardisation of planning solutions in areas with similar problems. An insight is also offered into patterns of rural change and the changing nature of rurality itself.