Research

19 pages, 11788 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Influencing Factors of the High-Quality Utilization of Territorial Space Based on the Perspective of Spatial Equilibrium: A Case Study of Hunan Province, China

by Qing Liu, Zengzeng Su and Weihao Huang

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12818; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912818 - 08 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1351

Abstract

In order to promote the efficient and coordinated utilization of counties’ territorial space in Hunan Province, this paper identifies the state of high-quality utilization of territorial space based on the perspective of spatial equilibrium from 2010 to 2020, and uses the spatial econometric [...] Read more.

In order to promote the efficient and coordinated utilization of counties’ territorial space in Hunan Province, this paper identifies the state of high-quality utilization of territorial space based on the perspective of spatial equilibrium from 2010 to 2020, and uses the spatial econometric model to analyze its influencing factors and propose effective optimization strategies. The results show that: (1) From 2010 to 2020, the quality of agricultural space utilization continued to decline in some areas, and elsewhere to decreased first and then increased. The core area of Chang-Zhu-Tan and the central urban areas of some prefectures have always been high-value areas for the quality of urban space utilization; the agricultural space utilization quality in the Dongting Lake Plain area and the Chang-Zhu-Tan area were high. By 2020, the range of Chang-Zhu-Tan agricultural space categorized as of high-value utilization quality areas has been significantly reduced; the high-value ecological space utilization quality areas were located in areas with large ecological scales, such as counties in the Wuling Mountains, etc. (2) From 2010 to 2020, the near-imbalance and barely balanced development have always been the main types of balanced development, and the balanced development in the core area of Chang-Zhu-Tan and Dongting Lake plain is high. (3) From 2010 to 2020, the types of high-quality utilization of territorial space in Hunan Province were mainly urban-agricultural-ecological spaces with low-quality equilibrium, and high-quality utilization of county areas were rare. The number of high-quality utilization counties was gradually decreasing, and by 2020, there was only one in Wuling District, Changde City. Therefore, the other 121 counties’ territorial space utilization status needs to be improved. (4) The high-quality utilization of territorial space in Hunan province was influenced by both regional background factors and external factors, and the external factors were more significant. Among them, population density, consumption level and other factors played an important role. Relevant departments can take effective measures to promote the efficient and coordinated use of county territorial space by taking such measures as relaxing the conditions for the introduction of talents, increasing financial investment, and so on. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)

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28 pages, 5216 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Current State of Territorial Development of ASEAN Countries and Strategic Types for Balanced Development

by Yehyun An and Minjee Kim

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12707; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912707 - 06 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1663

Abstract

ASEAN countries are promoting regionally balanced development in their policy in response to development disparity resulting from rapid urbanization. This study aims to draw strategic approaches for balanced development based on the current status of territorial development of the ASEAN countries. Through the [...] Read more.

ASEAN countries are promoting regionally balanced development in their policy in response to development disparity resulting from rapid urbanization. This study aims to draw strategic approaches for balanced development based on the current status of territorial development of the ASEAN countries. Through the lens of Korea’s territorial development experience, this study presents three strategic types for balanced territorial development and an analysis framework to connect the strategic types and the territorial conditions of ASEAN countries. This study analyzes the current status from five aspects: (1) the current status of urbanization and industrialization, (2) the size distribution of cities, (3) the spatial structure of the territories, (4) the state of regional development, and (5) balanced development visions and territorial policies. Based on the analysis results, this study categorizes the ASEAN countries that exhibit similar territorial development and applies the strategic types. This study derives policy measures suitable to each strategic type that will help the ASEAN countries to facilitate balanced development in accordance with their territorial state. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)

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15 pages, 636 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impacts of EU Cohesion Policy on Sustainable Tourism: The Case of POSEUR in Algarve

by Bernardo Valente and Eduardo Medeiros

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12672; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912672 - 05 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1367

Abstract

Sustainable tourism is a main priority of European Union policies, with the aim of mitigating the potential harmful consequences of this sector on a given territory. The main research goal of this article is to better understand the impact of the public investments [...] Read more.

Sustainable tourism is a main priority of European Union policies, with the aim of mitigating the potential harmful consequences of this sector on a given territory. The main research goal of this article is to better understand the impact of the public investments financed via EU Cohesion Policy in the tourism sector in the Portuguese Algarve NUT2. This paper focuses on the Portuguese Operational Programme for Sustainability and Efficient Use of Resources (POSEUR 20142020), which was an operational programme of a Portuguese framework to implement EU Cohesion Policy funds in Portugal between 2014 and 2020, and was specifically focused on supporting sustainable development processes. The sustainability performance of POSEUR in the Algarve was evaluated in five different dimensions of analysis: (1) low-emissions economy, (2) adaptation to climate change, (3) risk prevention and management, (4) environmental protection, and (5) resource efficiency. The results showed that POSEUR had a low impact in almost all dimensions in the Algarve, apart from the adaptation to climate change dimension, which exhibits a high impact score, mostly due to the support given for carrying out the Plans for Adaptation to Climate Change (PAAC). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)

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12 pages, 2230 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Research on the Spatial Governance Tools and Mechanism of Megacity Suburbs Based on Spatial Evolution: A Case of Beijing

by Fan Yang and Zhifeng Zhao

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 12384; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912384 - 29 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1004

Abstract

The research on the spatial governance of the suburbs of megacities is of great significance for coordinating the spatial relationship between the central urban area and the suburbs of megacities, and implementing the regional functional layout of megacities. It is helpful to formulate [...] Read more.

The research on the spatial governance of the suburbs of megacities is of great significance for coordinating the spatial relationship between the central urban area and the suburbs of megacities, and implementing the regional functional layout of megacities. It is helpful to formulate scientific spatial governance strategies, and coordinate suburban space and central urban areas to achieve coordinated and sustainable development. This paper uses spatial form indicators to study suburban space governance from the spatial evolution characteristics of suburban construction land, constructs the relationship between different spatial evolution characteristics and the utility of spatial governance tools in the suburbs of megacities, and discusses the mechanism of suburban spatial governance tools. The study found that the spatial governance of megacities runs through the whole process of spatial evolution. Together with the three stages of space evolution, “space shaping, space restoration, space reconstruction”, we present three spatial governance mechanism types: “extensive development with positive guidance as the theme”, “exploratory adjustment with transformation practice as the theme”, “fine governance with management and control intervention as the theme”. In addition, the study also found that direct and indirect suburban space governance tools have different action paths and usage characteristics, and there is a synergistic mechanism between the two types of tools. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)

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20 pages, 4310 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Innovative PEDRERA Model Tool Boosting Sustainable and Feasible Renovation Programs at District Scale in Spain

by Paolo Civiero, Jordi Pascual, Joaquim Arcas Abella and Jaume Salom

Sustainability 2022, 14(15), 9672; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14159672 - 05 Aug 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2105

Abstract

In accordance with the new recovery plan, Next Generation EU (NGEU), and the need to speed up the transition of cities towards a new sustainable model, this paper provides an overview of the outcomes of the PEDRERA project, which is focused on the [...] Read more.

In accordance with the new recovery plan, Next Generation EU (NGEU), and the need to speed up the transition of cities towards a new sustainable model, this paper provides an overview of the outcomes of the PEDRERA project, which is focused on the development of a novel tool able to calculate multiple key performance indicators that can support renovation actions at the district level, according to a Positive Energy District (PED) concept. The new tool is programmed in Python programming language and is useful to evaluate several strategies for the renovation of existing building stock. It moves from a quick list of input according to several Public Private Partnership (PPP) models, in addition to other potential business models. Furthermore, the design of the model is supported by a step-by-step methodology in order to deal with a “financial appraisal” that is interactive in each context, customizable for each stakeholder, and user-friendly. The paper describes this innovative tool and reports on the stronger potential that this model can offer when it runs in a QGIS software environment and interacts with a PostgreSQL database, as demonstrated in two case studies located in Spain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)

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19 pages, 4702 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of the COVID-19 Outbreak on the Use and Perceptions of Metropolitan Agricultural Parks—Evidence from Milan and Naples of Urban and Environmental Resilience

by Vincenzo Rusciano and Andrea Gatto

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7509; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127509 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1989

Abstract

This article describes the multi-function of the metropolitan agricultural parks (MAPs) in Milan (Parco Agricolo Sud Milano) and Naples (Parco De Filippo) and their resilience within the last COVID-19 lockdown period. These parks play an important role in the urban regeneration and social [...] Read more.

This article describes the multi-function of the metropolitan agricultural parks (MAPs) in Milan (Parco Agricolo Sud Milano) and Naples (Parco De Filippo) and their resilience within the last COVID-19 lockdown period. These parks play an important role in the urban regeneration and social inclusion processes in their relative metropolitan areas. Nevertheless, the restrictions imposed to limit COVID-19 contagions have imposed their closure or severely limited their activities, with evident consequences for the local population’s well-being. This study’s novelty is twofold: it is the first study examining the resilience and sustainability impact of MAPs during COVID-19; additionally, it is the first survey making use of Milan and Naples practices. The work uses primary and secondary data and mixed methods. Exploiting a document analysis and the elaboration of a semi-structured interview with the directors, the article lists the multiple functions of the parks and underlines their multidimensional governance vocations for fostering sustainable development—environmental, economic and social functions. The study also reveals that, during the lockdown, the parks’ activities were strongly reduced or restructured. Recreational and educational activities were lifted in Parco Agricolo Sud in Milan whilst local farms restructured their food supply and fostered their network and linkages with the urban distribution channels. MAP in Naples had to stop its activities and reorganize into a smart-working system. Lastly, our study found that economic and farm network activities were resumed with greater urgency in Milan, whereas in Naples the recovery of the social practices has taken on greater importance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)

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22 pages, 1656 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Conflicts and Social Innovation on the Balearic Islands (Spain)

by Néstor Vercher

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 4994; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14094994 - 21 Apr 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1723

Abstract

New environmental conflicts arise all the time as a consequence of the industrial economy and economic growth. The search for new energy and new materials jeopardizes the margin to promote sustainable development in many local communities. In this paper, we examine a conflict [...] Read more.

New environmental conflicts arise all the time as a consequence of the industrial economy and economic growth. The search for new energy and new materials jeopardizes the margin to promote sustainable development in many local communities. In this paper, we examine a conflict related to hydrocarbons projects in the Balearic Sea (Spain) from the social innovation perspective. This novel approach allows us to focus on how socially innovative responses can be triggered by environmental threats. A set of mixed methods (qualitative analysis and social network analysis) are implemented to study the emergence and development of Alianza Mar Blava in Ibiza–Formentera. This is an initiative that successfully activates new social relations and new collective practices that contribute to transform the environmental conflict. In this study, we highlight the strategic factors that allow the conflict to be transformed as well as other social processes that ultimately promote local sustainable development beyond the conflict. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)

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16 pages, 9872 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Use of the Sea as a Sustainable Development Instrument in Five EU Sea Basins

by Joanna Przedrzymirska, Jacek Zaucha, Helena Calado, Ivana Lukic, Martina Bocci, Emiliano Ramieri, Mario Cana Varona, Andrea Barbanti, Daniel Depellegrin, Marta de Sousa Vergílio, Angela Schultz-Zehden, Vincent Onyango, Eva Papaioannou, Bela H. Buck, Gesche Krause, Maximilian Felix Schupp, Rianne Läkamp, Kazimierz Szefler, Monika Michałek, Mairi Maniopoulou, Vassiliki Vassilopoulou, Zacharoula Kyriazi, Krystyna Gawlikowska-Hueckel, Stanisław Szultka, Christian Orobello, Kira Gee, Bruce Buchanan and Marija Lazić Show full author list Hide full author list

Sustainability 2021, 13(15), 8159; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13158159 - 21 Jul 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3897

Abstract

This paper examines the concept of maritime multi-use as a territorial/SPATIAL governance instrument for the enhancement of sustainable development in five EU sea basins. Multi-use (MU) is expected to enhance the productivity of blue economy sectors, as well as deliver additional socio-economic benefits [...] Read more.

This paper examines the concept of maritime multi-use as a territorial/SPATIAL governance instrument for the enhancement of sustainable development in five EU sea basins. Multi-use (MU) is expected to enhance the productivity of blue economy sectors, as well as deliver additional socio-economic benefits related to the environmental and social dimensions of sustainable development. The paper provides a definition of maritime multi-use and identifies the multi-uses with the highest potential in EU sea basins. In each sea basin, multi-use plays a different role as concerns sustainable development. For the Eastern Baltic Sea, the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea, the MU focus should remain on the environmental pillar of sustainable development. In the North Sea, North Atlantic and Western Baltic Sea, addressing social sustainability seems a key precondition for success of MU in enhancement of sustainable spatial development at sea. Moreover, it has been suggested to introduce MU key global strategies such as SDGs or Macroregional strategies and action plans and to supplement maritime spatial planning with sectoral incentives and educational efforts as key vehicles supporting MU. The paper concludes by identifying aspects which, in order to inform maritime spatial planning and maritime governance regarding a more conscious application of the aforementioned concept, require further investigation. Key tasks are related to: more profound evaluation of performance of policies supporting MUs, researching the impact of MU on societal goals and on the MU costs and benefits, including external ones, and finally identifying the impact of MU on the development of various sectors and regions on land. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)

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16 pages, 4473 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Place-Sensitive Social Investment and Territorial Cohesion: Implications for Sustainability

by Marta Cordini, Tatjana Boczy and Ruggero Cefalo

Sustainability 2021, 13(13), 7085; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13137085 - 24 Jun 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1816

Abstract

This theoretical paper presents a review of existing literature on the Social Investment (SI) approach to social policy and its underlying and under-explored territorial dimension. The SI approach has been debated and promoted mainly at national and supranational level, while the territorial dimension [...] Read more.

This theoretical paper presents a review of existing literature on the Social Investment (SI) approach to social policy and its underlying and under-explored territorial dimension. The SI approach has been debated and promoted mainly at national and supranational level, while the territorial dimension has been relatively underestimated in the policy as well as in the academic debate. A place-sensitive approach should be included within the analytical framework when addressing the territorial articulation of SI, as territorial-related variables may foster or hinder SI policies. Therefore, we provide a theoretical frame to articulate the territorial dimension of SI, and we discuss relevant points of contact between Social Investment and Territorial Cohesion. First, we provide a critical discussion about Social Investment approach, with the simultaneous aim of highlighting the gaps and the flaws, among which we focus on the territorial dimension of these policies. Second, we argue that this territorial dimension is related to the interaction between four main factors: (1) The reliance on the provision of capacitating services; (2) the process of institutional rescaling; (3) the persistence of spatial inequalities at subnational levels; and (4) the characteristics of the knowledge and learning economy. Third, we explore the relationship between place-sensitive Social Investment and Territorial Cohesion, discussing potential implications for sustainable development. The work is a theoretical reflection based on the HORIZON2020 project COHSMO “Inequality, Urbanization and Territorial Cohesion: developing the European social model of economic growth and democratic capacity”. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)

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17 pages, 2553 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Perception of Polish Business Stakeholders of the Local Economic Impact of Maritime Spatial Planning Promoting the Development of Offshore Wind Energy

by Tomasz Laskowicz

Sustainability 2021, 13(12), 6755; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13126755 - 15 Jun 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2183

Abstract

The recently adopted maritime spatial plan for Polish sea waters promotes offshore wind farm (OWF) development. The study’s identification of the local municipalities affected by offshore development was based on the plan’s provisions. Through the analysis of the plan and literature findings, both [...] Read more.

The recently adopted maritime spatial plan for Polish sea waters promotes offshore wind farm (OWF) development. The study’s identification of the local municipalities affected by offshore development was based on the plan’s provisions. Through the analysis of the plan and literature findings, both positive and negative impacts of future OWF development were identified and examined. Such an analysis seems to be a precondition for the more active engagement of local stakeholders in the debate on the ways in which to best utilize the new opportunities created by the plan and cope with the threats resulting from maritime spatial planning (MSP). The key impacts recognized by the local business stakeholders have been related to landscape pollution and fishing limitations. Stakeholders less frequently have noticed positive impacts of MSP such as development of a new form of tourism. Up to this point, small municipalities have not undertaken sufficient action, and there is a lack of communication between developers, marine planners and coastal communities. Planners have not assessed the impact of their plan on local economic development. The proposed remedies cover standard actions related to communication, education and dialogue, but in addition to that, a consolidated action of local municipalities on how to capitalize on OWF development has been proposed. The first step proposed is preparation of a joint strategy by coastal municipalities addressing this issue. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)

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18 pages, 2220 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effective Implementation of Urban Agendas through Urban Action Structures (UAS): The Case of the Basque Country

by Irati Otamendi-Irizar, Olatz Grijalba, Alba Arias, Claudia Pennese and Rufino Hernández

Sustainability 2021, 13(11), 6059; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13116059 - 27 May 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1811

Abstract

Cities are the main contributors to pollution, resource consumption and social inequalities. Therefore, they should play a key role in the path towards a more sustainable scenario in line with SDGs and different Urban Agendas. However, there are still difficulties in their implementation [...] Read more.

Cities are the main contributors to pollution, resource consumption and social inequalities. Therefore, they should play a key role in the path towards a more sustainable scenario in line with SDGs and different Urban Agendas. However, there are still difficulties in their implementation and citizen can play a central role. This paper presents the Urban Action Structures (UAS), understood as entities with a catalytic capacity with respect to innovative urban policies. Methodologically, firstly, a prospective analysis from regional to international level has been developed, making it possible to identify innovative lines of action in the field of sustainable cities. Secondly, the study has focused on identifying and studying UAS that can make it possible to implement the lines of action previously identified. This paper has shown that there are already social structures that can be understood as UAS, since they implement actions aligned with the priorities of the Urban Agenda for the Basque Country and, therefore, of the SDGs. The research concludes that UAS can play a key role in facilitating the implementation of Urban Agendas. Hence, urban policies should favor the generation of UAS, in order to promote long-term urban development and to foster a more sustainable spatial planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)

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18 pages, 473 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Towards More Balanced Territorial Relations—The Role (and Limitations) of Spatial Planning as a Governance Approach

by Karlheinz Knickel, Alexandra Almeida, Lisa Bauchinger, Maria Pia Casini, Bernd Gassler, Kerstin Hausegger-Nestelberger, Jesse Heley, Reinhard Henke, Marina Knickel, Henk Oostindie, Ulla Ovaska, Carlos Pina, Massimo Rovai, Hans Vulto and Johannes S. C. Wiskerke

Sustainability 2021, 13(9), 5308; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13095308 - 10 May 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3107

Abstract

Decision-makers, planners and administrators involved in different policy domains at different governance levels face the important challenge of fostering more balanced, sustainable and territorially integrated development. Well-designed, multi-level, multi-sector and multi-actor governance arrangements can play a key role in this process through orchestrating [...] Read more.

Decision-makers, planners and administrators involved in different policy domains at different governance levels face the important challenge of fostering more balanced, sustainable and territorially integrated development. Well-designed, multi-level, multi-sector and multi-actor governance arrangements can play a key role in this process through orchestrating the interplay between different spheres, activities, actors and interests. In this paper, we examine the role of spatial planning in improving the relations between rural, peri-urban and urban areas. We analyse the strengths and limitations of spatial planning and explore the connections with territorial development. The methodology used for this analysis combines regional case studies in seven European locations—Ede, Frankfurt/Rhein-Main, Styria/Graz, Helsinki, Lisbon, Lucca and Mid Wales, with rapid appraisals, the analysis of published data, expert judgement and triangulation. We ask under which conditions spatial planning can induce more balanced, sustainable territorial relations, and look at the contribution planning can make to achieving sustainable development goals. The problem of ineffective (or toothless) plan implementation provides the entry point into the analysis and discussion. We illustrate why mutually beneficial relations between urban, peri-urban and rural communities (and territories) cannot simply be planned. Instead, these relationships need to be supported by strategies, policy instruments and governance arrangements that foster synergies between different actors and activities. The planning process itself needs to become more transparent and participatory. We conclude that the questions addressed in this article in an exploratory fashion merit further research especially as a more sustainable and territorially integrated development is becoming increasingly important in European policy making. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)

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15 pages, 1401 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Global Development Formula

by Eduardo Medeiros

Sustainability 2021, 13(9), 5262; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13095262 - 08 May 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2686

Abstract

Development remains a central concept for policy design and implementation aimed at improving the quality of life of the world population, despite a manifest rise in neoliberalist economic growth policy strategic guidance rationales. In accepting the relevance of development processes, this paper proposes [...] Read more.

Development remains a central concept for policy design and implementation aimed at improving the quality of life of the world population, despite a manifest rise in neoliberalist economic growth policy strategic guidance rationales. In accepting the relevance of development processes, this paper proposes a global development formula embracing four main pillars and their respective components: (i) global governance; (ii) global wealth; (iii) global resources; and (vi) global sustainability. Ultimately, this global development perspective presents a more comprehensive and holistic lens than current development visions to demonstrate the development status of territories at all territorial scales. By using existing indexes associated with the proposed main pillars of development, the research presents a novel global development index for 2020. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)

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19 pages, 2433 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Building Institutional Capacity to Plan for Climate Neutrality: The Role of Local Co-Operation and Inter-Municipal Networks at the Regional Level

by Vincent Wretling and Berit Balfors

Sustainability 2021, 13(4), 2173; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13042173 - 18 Feb 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2714

Abstract

The institutional capacity of local authorities to integrate climate change mitigation aspects into spatial planning is of vital importance. This paper sets out to investigate this capacity in the county of Stockholm, Sweden, by surveying 26 municipalities and analysing two case study municipalities [...] Read more.

The institutional capacity of local authorities to integrate climate change mitigation aspects into spatial planning is of vital importance. This paper sets out to investigate this capacity in the county of Stockholm, Sweden, by surveying 26 municipalities and analysing two case study municipalities through participation in workshops and interviews. The study shows the need both for a local energy and climate policy domain that can be integrated into spatial planning as well as dedicated personnel to maintain this policy, thereby securing knowledge resources within the organisation. Additionally, the importance of relations to and repertoires for interacting with politicians is highlighted. Lastly, the study demonstrates the complementary added value of a regional-local network administered by the County Administrative Board, spreading learning examples and diffusing theoretical knowledge, as well as sub-regional, inter-municipal networks that enable the transfer of more practical knowledge and provide a platform for concrete action. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)

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13 pages, 1891 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on the Influence of a High-Speed Railway on the Spatial Structure of the Western Urban Agglomeration Based on Fractal Theory—Taking the Chengdu–Chongqing Urban Agglomeration as an Example

by Jiao Li, Yongsheng Qian, Junwei Zeng, Fan Yin, Leipeng Zhu and Xiaoping Guang

Sustainability 2020, 12(18), 7550; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12187550 - 13 Sep 2020

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 2712

Abstract

By shortening the transportation time between cities, high-speed rail shortens the spatial distance between cities and exerts a far-reaching influence on urban agglomerations’ spatial structures. In order to explore the influence of high-speed rail on the spatial reconstruction of an urban agglomeration in [...] Read more.

By shortening the transportation time between cities, high-speed rail shortens the spatial distance between cities and exerts a far-reaching influence on urban agglomerations’ spatial structures. In order to explore the influence of high-speed rail on the spatial reconstruction of an urban agglomeration in western China, this paper employs fractal theory to compare and analyze the spatial structure evolution of the Chengdu–Chongqing urban agglomeration in western China before and after the opening of a high-speed railway. The results show that after the completion of the high-speed railway, the intercity accessibility is improved. The Chengdu–Chongqing urban agglomeration’s spatial distribution shows a decreasing density from the central city to the surrounding areas. Furthermore, the urban system presents a trend of an agglomeration distribution. Therefore, strengthening the construction of high-speed rail channels between primary and medium-sized cities, as well as accelerating the construction of intercity railway networks and rapid transportation systems based on high-speed rail cities, would help develop urban agglomerations in western China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)

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20 pages, 767 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable and Integrated Urban Planning and Governance in Metropolitan and Medium-Sized Cities

by Eduardo Medeiros and Arno van der Zwet

Sustainability 2020, 12(15), 5976; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12155976 - 24 Jul 2020

Cited by 41 | Viewed by 7305

Abstract

This paper examines the design and implementation process of Integrated Strategies for Sustainable Urban Development (ISUD), as well as their main effects and lessons learned in two European cities: Barcelona in Spain, a vibrant European metropolis, and Évora in Portugal, a medium-sized city [...] Read more.

This paper examines the design and implementation process of Integrated Strategies for Sustainable Urban Development (ISUD), as well as their main effects and lessons learned in two European cities: Barcelona in Spain, a vibrant European metropolis, and Évora in Portugal, a medium-sized city with a world heritage historic centre. The former is facing socioeconomic challenges in some of its neighbourhoods, while the latter, a regional capital of an already depopulated region, Alentejo, is facing further depopulation and socioeconomic challenges. Following from a qualitative analysis of ISUD and other urban plans implemented in past decades, the article employs a framework with five analytical dimensions, based on the policy cycle (priority setting, participatory approaches, implementation strategy, collaboration networks, and measuring results and impact). These provide a framework to identify best practices. The findings demonstrate that ISUD in both cities provides impetus for sustainable strategic planning, but can be strengthened in particular via the active involvement of citizens and stakeholders in the elaboration and implementation of these ISUD. Conversely, the results demonstrate mounting challenges that many urban planners in medium-sized towns face in relation to inverting depopulation trends, raising further questions of to what extent European Cohesion policy, and ISUD in particular, can contribute to territorial cohesion objectives whilst also aiming to achieve other policy goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)

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