Abstract:
EN: Problem statement. The small communes with low population are the most widespread
settlements in central regions of France. The social and economic decline has been observed in most
of such settlements since the second half of the 20th century. The economic decline was triggered by
the closure of industrial production facilities and a significant decline in mining activities caused by the low-quality raw materials, the changes in the technological characteristics of production, the lack of sufficient interregional transportation routes, and the lack of industrial facilities related to these industries. These regions have been facing a demographic crisis, with the average age of the population is more than 50 years old. The young people are leaving for more developed regions in search of better job opportunities and a more comfortable socio-cultural environment.
In 2000, the region prefecture decided to conduct a study to ensure the safety of the industrial zone and to chart a further course for the urbanization of post-industrial areas
