metropoolregio

Metropoolregio is a term used in several countries to denote a large urban area that encompasses a central city and its surrounding, often less densely populated, suburban and exurban areas. These regions are characterized by high population density and significant economic and social integration. The concept of a metropoolregio emphasizes the functional interconnectedness of these areas, recognizing that daily life, commuting, labor markets, and infrastructure often extend far beyond the administrative boundaries of the core city.

The specific administrative or legal definition of a metropoolregio can vary. In some cases, it might be a formal governmental entity established to manage shared resources and coordinate development across multiple municipalities. In others, it might be a more informal designation used by urban planners and researchers to describe the broader economic and social sphere of influence of a major city. These regions are crucial for understanding contemporary urban dynamics, including issues related to transportation, housing, environmental sustainability, and economic competitiveness. They often face challenges related to managing growth, providing services to a dispersed population, and bridging disparities between the central city and its periphery.