Functions follow size? New research article in the European Journal of Spatial Development

Do functions follow size? This question is addressed in a new research article published in the European Journal of Spatial Development. The article shows that many small Alpine towns fulfil urban functions that go beyond what their population size would suggest. This highlights the relevance of geographical context when it comes to understanding urban functionality.

New evidence on small and medium-sized towns in mountain areas:

Small Alpine towns are, on average, up to three times smaller than peri-Alpine towns, yet provide similar levels of services of general interest.

Roles beyond size

Small Alpine towns fulfil roles beyond size, offering a level of functionality comparable to larger peri-Alpine cities.

Factor-3 argument

The factor-3 argument highlights that inner-Alpine towns are, on average, up to three times smaller than peri-Alpine towns, yet provide similar levels of services of general interest.