Highway as a Factor in Local Community Development : The Case of Pomurje and Carinthia

The third development axis is supposed to connect Carinthia more effectively with other parts of Slovenia. In this context, the impact of the proximity of motorways or expressways is particularly relevant. Experience shows that the proximity of motorways brings numerous advantages to local communities: 1) improved accessibility and mobility; 2) accelerated economic development; 3) development of service activities and logistics centres along motorways; 4) greater attractiveness of the area for settlement and investment; and 5) faster development of tourism. Nevertheless, the proximity of motorways also has negative effects, such as increased noise levels and traffic volumes, environmental pollution along the roads, and impacts on air quality, soil, and biodiversity. Also, increased crime associated with motorway rest areas and settlements in their immediate vicinity is often mentioned. The paper will demonstrate the impacts of the motorway connection on local communities in the region through a comparative analysis of Pomurje and Carinthia.