ABSTRACT
Regional development processes should start from identification of broad goals. Shaping regional development requires an orientation towards the long-term where building a 'static capacity' is less important than 'dynamic capacity' focusing on those factors emphasising learning and adaptation to constantly changing conditions. Local authorities' ability to perceive and build a regional development capacity is an essential aspect in the process of regional restructuring. Upper Silesia's position in Europe is changing fast with many new challenges. The development capacity of the region is based on a number of key elements are integration of the regional transport infrastructure in a trans-European system, attracting global market investors, maintaining a rapid pace of structural change, strengthening metropolitan functions in the region and restructuring post-industrial areas. The development capacity of the region of key elements also includes developing tourist and recreational potential, the natural and the cultural environment, revitalising human capital, creating vibrant social capital, strengthening multicultural identity, counteracting marginalization.
