National infrastructure systems provide a foundation for economic prosperity and well-being. In addition to factors
such as technological change and obsolescence, infrastructure systems need to respond to changing levels of
demand, which is strongly driven by population growth. However demographic change is not independent of
economic conditions, or the nature and quality of infrastructure. This research is concerned with the interrelationships
between demographics, economy and infrastructure.
The paper therefore develops a novel approach to modelling the evolution of a national economy in the context of
changing demographics and infrastructure provision. This approach is based in a model with coupled sub-systems
which are spatially disaggregate with explicit temporal dynamics. A version of the model is calibrated using a
demographic component which incorporates both natural change and migration, and an economic model which
recognises both labour and capital as factors of production. Infrastructure is present as an influence on accessibility,
geographical attractiveness and economic productivity.
The performance of the model is explored through a variety of scenarios which are offered as an initial proof of
concept of the feasibility of implementing a co-evolutionary model of demographic and economic growth over a
medium to long time horizon. These scenarios indicate the influence of government policies for international migration
and infrastructure investment on regional development and performance
