ESPON InTerAlp [Interface territories across the Alpine region] - Policy Brief

The ESPON InTerAlp project aims at a better understanding of interface territories between the peri-Alpine lowlands and the inner-Alpine highlands. By mapping patterns, flows and spatial development trends, this project supports the development of appropriate governance and policy approaches. Alpine interface territories are a spatial category that has hardly been object of analytical reflections. While extensive knowledge exists for many spatial categories, including mountain, urban, rural and lake areas (e.g. ESPON Alps2050, ESPON LAKES, ESPON METRO, ESPON PROFECY), the spatial dynamics of the transition areas between inner and outer Alpine zones have yet to be subjected to systematic analysis. These regions are often perceived either as peripheral from a mountain perspective or as suburban from a core city perspective. Putting them at the focus of regional development and policy analyses is a novel approach. Alpine interface territories link mountainous and inner-Alpine areas with pre-Alpine lowlands and, thus, are a very specific territorial type: Highly dynamic flows and interdependencies as well as controversial stakeholder interests meet in a rather limited spatial framework. Organizing sustainable spatial development in this geographical context is a challenge. These challenges extend beyond administrative boundaries and require pan-Alpine strategies and cross-border instruments in spatial planning and development (e.g. in relation to ecological fragmentation, sharp socio-economic disparities and multi-level governance obstacles). The ESPON InTerAlp project provides a systematic exploration of the specific spatial dynamics, challenges and opportunities associated with Alpine interface territories. The analysis addresses a number of key questions, including the definition and delineation of Alpine interface territories, the identification of common challenges and opportunities, and the review of governance frameworks and instruments for Alpine spatial planning and development. The InTerAlp project contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the functional territorial development dynamics and flows that characterise Alpine interface territories. In addition, the project analysed the types and quality of governance and policy mechanisms that are currently in place. The project provides evidence-based guidance towards a more integrated, sustainable and inclusive development of the Alpine region, with particular reference to Alpine interface territories, for the benefit of both urban and rural areas in the Alpine context. The ESPON InTerAlp Policy Brief provides regional and national stakeholders across the Alpine region with new territorial evidence to address the specific challenges and opportunities of Alpine interface territories to facilitate integrated and sustainable spatial development.