Der Transformationsprozeß in der Region Tschernjachowsk (Gebiet Kaliningrad)

Abstract

Within the Tschernjachowsk region situated in the south-eastern part of the Kaliningrad area, field research into the structural and socio-spatial changes of the town and of its surroundings was carried out in 1994. First results reveal that the infrastructure of the former German town (Insterburg), its public buildings and residential and industrial establishments were re-utilized in different ways after 1945. The large barack establishments, school buildings, hospitals but also industrial establishments for instance have enjoyed a persistent use. However, during the reconstruction of the town, the existing structure was only little considered so that there is no harmonious link between the old boroughs and the newly built structures. Since the political system change took place, the first elements of a market-economy have become perceptible in the town; new service facilities such as law firms, banking facilities, workshops and also retail stores have been created. Animated street trade, especially in foodstuffs, takes place. The map showing the use of the city centre also makes evident that the overall number of the new establishments is still relatively low. The city of Tschernjachowsk has a very favourable situation on the intersection of important railway lines and roads. At present, the town draws only little profit from its geographical situation since there are transit problems with the neighbouring country of Lithuania. However, this situation is nevertheless of great advantage for the future town development. Since the transition to the market economy, Tschernjachowsk's relations to its surroundings have extended very much. The town is now an important trading centre for a large rural surrounding. As a result of a survey it was found out that commuters even come from adjacent counties to Chernyakhovsk for purchase and sale. The development of the rural surrounding is slower than that of the town. The big agricultural cooperatives and state farms that dominated economic and social life of the village in former times are now faced with great problems and can hardly become the carrier of the economic turnaround in the countryside. Commercial facilities and companies exist only in limited numbers.