Mapping the future urbanization patterns on the urban fringe in the Netherlands
Long-range scenario studies suggest an ongoing urbanization process on the urban fringe in the Netherlands. This article maps out the urbanization patterns that are expected for the coming decades. First, 19 so-called topological accommodation factors are identified. Subsequently, the corresponding spatial patterns are modelled in a geographic information system, resulting in a multilayered set of maps depicting the conditions for future urbanization. The maps offer policymakers an expertise instrument with which they can picture the ‘what’ (developments) and also can collect information that is relevant to the ‘how’ (governance).
The maps show that highly urbanized areas will probably grow towards each other or into each other. They also raise some complex policy issues. At the regional level, there is a need for urbanization strategies that transcend municipal boundaries. At the national level, an important question is how increasing dispersed urbanization will affect the most urbanized regions in the Netherlands, in terms of both the economic performance of cities and the efficient use of existing infrastructure, which are important policy objectives of the national government.
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Specifications
- Publication title
- Mapping the future urbanization patterns on the urban fringe in the Netherlands
- Publication date
- 1 March 2012
- Publication type
- Publication
- Magazine
- Urban Research & Practice, 5:1, 129-156
- Product number
- 589