Urbani Izziv (Jan 2005)
The effects of expansion of built-up areas on landscape qualities in the Ljubljana urban region in the period 1951–2002
Abstract
The urban fringe is extending outwards, (un)planned settlement growth is occurring on various land types and can also affect important natural and environmental qualities. By analysis of expansion of built-up areas in a case study area in the Ljubljana urban region (LUR) over a lengthy period (1951–2002) we can establish, which land was affected by growth and which spatial qualities were damaged or lost. From the findings we can conclude, how efficient the system of land protection from development was, since it was primarily oriented towards protection of agricultural land. The law on protection of agricultural land before changes of land use should have ensured protection of best agricultural land. According to the law agricultural land was classified into areas of best agricultural land, which are best suited for agricultural cultivation or areas, which are less suitable for agricultural cultivation. Practically all plains were grouped into the first category. Planning of settlements and all other activities occurring in the environment were left with hardly any opportunities, but also because of various conflicts large areas of best agricultural lands were lost, just as other lands that are important for preservation of nature and natural resources.
