In the research group on Local and Regional Development we strive to generate new knowledge about development related issues, opportunities and strategies in challenged localities and regions in a global perspective. The following are key questions:

• What are the challenges for small cities and peripheral communities outside large urban areas?
• What are the possibilities of achieving sustainable and just development trajectories in these areas with regards to demography, jobs, business, education, welfare & quality of life, quality of place and meaning etc?
• Which strategies, visions and discourses are in existence or can be developed to strengthen these areas?

The present composition of the group is cross-disciplinary with solid roots in the geographical tradition of science. Each group member holds cross-disciplinary competencies, and the group is always open to dialogue and cooperation.

External relations

Beyond the confines of Aalborg University group members are engaged in close collaboration with both practitioners and other researchers. We are in continuous critical dialogue with our external partners; a process that always turns out to be a learning experience on both parts. Presently the external partners include the municipality of Frederikshavn and the culture region Østjysk Vækstbånd (East Jutland Growth Alliance). Both are co-financers of on-going PhD projects.

We engage in the following international research networks:

• Experience Economy & Spatial Strategies
• Peripheral & Marginal Regions in Northen Europe
• Global Creativity Research Network.