Uneven Intraurban Growth in Chinese Cities: A Study of Nanjing
Dennis Yehua WEI1, Jun LUO2
1. Department of Geography & Institute of Public and International Affairs,
University of Utah
2. Department of Geography, Geology and Planning, Missouri State University
Abstract
Urban growth is uneven within Chinese cities. Scaling down the research on
Chinese cities is essential to better understand local dimensions of urban development.
Through a case study of Nanjing, we reveal spatial variations in urban growth patterns.
We also employ both global and local logistic regressions to model the probability of
urban land expansion against a set of spatial variables. We have found that compared
with other fast growing coastal cities, Nanjing remains a relatively compact city.
Logistic regression shows the significance of proximity, neighborhood conditions, and
urban agglomeration in urban land change. The logistic GWR has uncovered
distinctive local patterns of urban growth in Nanjing, shaped by local urban spatial
and institutional structures. A probability surface of urban growth provides a clear
scenario of urban growth patterns and can be useful for decision making. This study
also shows the importance of policy studies and fieldwork in the interpretation of
results generated from statistical and GIS modeling.
Keywords: Urban growth; uneven development, GWR; Nanjing; China