Work

Borrowing size in networks of cities: City size, network connectivity and metropolitan functions in Europe

Year: 2015

Type: article

Abstract: The current dynamics in the Western European urban system are in marked contrast with the bourgeoning literature stressing the importance of agglomeration for economic growth. This paper explores whether this is due to the rise of ‘city network economies’, leading to processes of borrowed size as well as the rise of agglomeration shadows in networks of cities. The spread of metropolitan functions over Western European cities is analysed. It is found that network connectivity positively enhances the presence of metropolitan functions, but local size remains the most significant determinant for most types of functions. The importance of size and network connectivity differs across metropolitan functions and across cities.

Source: Papers of the Regional Science Association

DOI: 10.1111/pirs.12181

Authors: Evert J. Meijers, Martijn J. Burger, Marloes M. Hoogerbrugge

Institutions: Delft University of Technology, Tinbergen Institute, Erasmus University Rotterdam

Language: English

Topic: Regional Economics and Spatial Analysis

Subfield: Economics and Econometrics

Field: Economics, Econometrics and Finance

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,740