Where does a better quality of life begin — in a private house outside the city or in a vibrant, well-connected urban environment? And how do individual housing choices influence the development of cities as a whole?
LaSER researcher and urban planner Oskars Leosks participated in the Radio SWH TV programme “Mainās visas papardes”, where, together with host Ainārs Rutkēvičs, he discussed suburbanisation trends in Latvia and their impact on the development of Riga and its surrounding areas.
Suburbanisation — the movement of residents and economic activity from city centres towards suburbs — has become increasingly visible in Latvia over the past decades, particularly in the Riga metropolitan area. Private homes, larger living spaces, and closer proximity to nature are often seen as advantages of suburban living. However, this process also creates challenges, including greater dependence on cars, increased infrastructure costs, and the decline of city centres.
During the discussion, Oskars Leosks explained that suburbanisation is not unique to Latvia, but part of broader urban development cycles that have affected cities across Europe. He emphasised that the key question is not only where people choose to live, but also how municipalities plan territorial development, housing policy, and transport systems as interconnected issues.
The expert highlighted that living outside the city does not automatically represent a more sustainable choice. Compact urban environments often allow for more efficient use of infrastructure, lower energy consumption, and better access to services. Meanwhile, uncontrolled suburban expansion can increase pressure on the environment and public infrastructure.
The discussion also addressed Riga’s development challenges — how to strengthen the city centre while responding to changing patterns of living and mobility. Oskars Leosks stressed that the development of Riga and neighbouring municipalities should be viewed at the metropolitan level, as residents’ daily movements and lifestyles extend beyond administrative boundaries.
The full conversation with Oskars Leosks is available on the Radio SWH TV programme “Mainās visas papardes”
Foto: radioSWH.lv