An Analysis of the Spatial-Physical Structure of Isfahan City Based on the Agile City Approach
Subject Areas :Amin Karbasi Salmasi 1 , پروانه زیویار 2
1 - Ph.D. Candidate of Geography and Urban Planning, Islamic Azad University, Yadegar Imam Branch (RAH), Tehran, Iran.
2 - استادیار گروه جغرافیای برنامه ریزی شهری، دانشگاه آزاد اسلامی واحد یادگار امام خمینی (ره)
Keywords: Spatial flexibility, agile city, land-use diversity, urban resilience, sustainable development,
Abstract :
Introduction And Objectives: Urban areas must exhibit flexibility and agility to handle rapid and unforeseen changes. In cities like Isfahan, with their complex historical and spatial structures, this agility is crucial for adapting to environmental, social, and economic shifts. Existing research has highlighted the importance of land use diversity, access to services, and infrastructure quality in determining urban flexibility. However, many studies have only addressed these factors in broad terms, lacking detailed regional analysis. This research aims to fill this gap by examining spatial structure and flexibility across different districts of Isfahan, focusing on the impact of land use diversity, infrastructure access, and demographic indicators. The findings will offer insights and recommendations for improving urban agility and quality of life in various city areas. Methodology: This research employs a descriptive-analytical approach and is applied in nature, focusing on analyzing the spatial structure of Isfahan with an emphasis on urban agility. Both quantitative and qualitative methods are used for data collection and analysis, utilizing GIS and SPSS software. Demographic data are gathered from official sources and standardized questionnaires, while land use and infrastructure data are obtained through existing maps and remote sensing techniques. Sampling is performed using a multi-stage cluster sampling method, with 384 individuals surveyed. Data are analyzed using statistical tests such as Pearson correlation and linear regression in SPSS, and spatial analysis is conducted with ArcGIS. Triangulation methods are used to ensure data validity and reliability, with Cronbach's alpha showing a reliability above 0.7. This methodology provides a comprehensive overview of urban agility in Isfahan, aiding decision-makers in effective spatial planning and sustainable urban development. Results and Discussion: The spatial structure analysis of Isfahan highlights significant disparities in spatial flexibility across different urban areas. Central regions exhibit higher flexibility due to diverse land use and better access to services, while peripheral areas, particularly in the east and west, face challenges due to limited infrastructure and a focus on specific land uses, such as residential. Data from various indices, including land-use change, service access, and population density, confirm these differences. Central Isfahan benefits from higher infrastructure access, environmental quality, and adaptive capacity, while peripheral regions require targeted improvements in infrastructure, environmental management, and socio-economic policies to enhance their spatial flexibility and urban agility. Conclusion: The research highlights that Isfahan's central areas exhibit higher spatial flexibility due to diverse land uses, good infrastructure, and varied services, while peripheral areas, particularly in the east and west, show lower flexibility due to limited land use diversity and inadequate infrastructure. Environmental factors, such as air quality and vegetation, also significantly affect spatial flexibility. The study aligns with previous findings from cities like Shiraz and Tehran, emphasizing the importance of land use diversity and infrastructure development in urban resilience. To enhance spatial flexibility in Isfahan, the research recommends improving infrastructure, increasing land use diversity, and addressing environmental issues, especially in peripheral areas.
