Environmental changes with construction of new town and residents interaction: Case study of Kobe City in Hyogo Prefecture

Abstract

This case study reports the influence of newly constructed town on rural urban area, focusing on Hazetani District and the Seishin New Town in Kobe City. The Seishin New Town is one of the biggest newly constructed town by Kobe City adjacent are of Hazetani District. It has caused the environmental change of Hazetani District since 1970s. A case survey was administered in Hazetani and Seishin New Town. The regional materials were examined a lot. The result showed that Hazetani residents recognized residents in newly constructed town negatively at that time. As time went on, a school in Hazetani Town conducted regional festivals for residents’ interaction. As a result, those who live in Hazetani came to perceived to residents who live in newly constructed town positively. The case study suggests that the role of school in region is important to reduce conflict and environmental damage.