Analysis of the Features of a Degraded Land in Terms of Revitalization – Case Study on the Example of a Post-Smelter Area

The process of transformation in the Polish economy, transforming it from a planned economy into a market economy, has resulted, among others, in the liquidation of many heavy industry plants in the Upper Silesian Industrial Region (GOP). GOP cities, which grew up on the basis of heavy industry, were spatially planned according to the needs of mining and metallurgical plants. Liquidation of the plants resulted in the creation of degraded, unused post-industrial areas, scattered over various city districts. Their location is often very attractive, but with many drawbacks, such as degradation, contamination by harmful substances or unclear legal status, potential investors are reluctant to take interest in them. Detailed documentation of the land’s characteristics, the effects of the activity previously carried out here, the community’s expectations regarding the use and development of such land, will make it easier for the investor to take a decision on the redevelopment of the area. The article is an example of a preliminary analysis of a selected post-industrial area, which helps to outline the direction of its revitalization.