Market potential in British regions, 1871-1931

Abstract

This paper constructs measures of market potential for British regions based on the spatial distribution of Gross Domestic Product and its accessibility. The results show that the North, Scotland and Wales were much less 'peripheral' before the First World War than in 1985. The main reason for the deterioration in their position was changing transport costs associated with the demise of coastal shipping and the rise of road haulage. The implications of technological progress in transportation for relative market potential over the long run have gone unremarked but should not be forgotten as globalization forges ahead. ©2005 Regional Studies Association.