Landsbygdsstråk

Landsbygdsstråk is a planning and policy concept used in Sweden to describe and coordinate development along defined rural corridors that connect smaller communities to larger urban centers. It is not an administrative unit, but a framework for prioritizing investments in infrastructure, services, and local business development to sustain population and economic activity in sparsely populated areas.

Definition and scope: Landsbygdsstråk typically follow existing transport routes such as major roads and rail lines, and other functional linkages like energy and digital networks, healthcare and education services, and labor markets. They bring together several municipalities within a region to address common challenges, including aging populations, limited access to services, and vulnerability to urban migration.

Objectives and measures: The aim is to strengthen the competitiveness and livability of rural areas by improving accessibility, digital connectivity (broadband), sustainable mobility, housing, and entrepreneurship. Measures may include upgrades to transport infrastructure, subsidies for broadband expansion, support for local businesses and tourism, and coordinated provision of public services.

Governance and funding: Landsbygdsstråk are implemented through regional and national strategies in dialogue with municipalities and county administrations, often financed by EU rural development programs, state funding, and regional funds. Evaluation focuses on population retention, employment, business activity, service coverage, and transport reliability.

Examples and relation: The concept is part of Sweden’s regional policy to balance development between urban and rural areas and is related to broader European rural development and smart specialization initiatives.