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What are the consequences of small towns ignoring the theme? |
The loss of employment opportunities in a small town can result very quickly with devastating effects. If not remedied just as quickly, it can become a self-reinforcing factor leading to further loss of investment and jobs. On top of this, the loss of employment in a town can result in social deprivation, immigrant workers often fill the lower-wage jobs, and business retention and recruitment becomes a difficult task.
In the case of small towns with an increasing commuter population, the loss of jobs contributes to the ‘dormitory’ status of the town. Essentially, any of these factors can lead to a loss in the town culture and identity (see ‘Identity’ component). The symptoms of economic decline can continue on a slippery slope until drastic, and often expensive intervention, is necessary.
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