Spatial Differentiation of Centralized Resettlement Communities and its Driving Mechanism Based on the Perspective of Dual-Dimensional Living Functions: Evidence from Xi’an, China

Abstract

The massive construction of resettlement communities has caused negative social impacts, such as the uneven distribution of public services, transport facilities, and other resources due to spatial differentiation. Therefore, understanding the driving mechanism of spatial differentiation in resettlement communities could provide necessary ideas when determining the appropriate path to improve the living function of the resettlement community. In this study, 218 resettlement communities that have been built and put into use in Xi’an (Shaanxi Province, China) were selected as research samples. With the help of ArcGIS and a multivariate logistic model, this study analyzes the spatial differentiation of resettlement communities and its driving mechanism from the perspective of dual-dimensional living functions. Moreover, measuring the spatial differentiation based on the dual-dimensional living function can explore the differentiated living conditions that are presented by residents’ access to spatial resources from the people-oriented. The results show that a community with a high degree of spatial differentiation will lead to restricted access to internal and external resources for the resettled residents, and there are hidden dangers of social isolation. In addition, the business districts and the plate of the urban reconstruction project are the external drivers that lead to the differentiation of accessibility attributes, and the developer qualification and service levels of the property management company are the internal driving forces that lead to the differentiation of residential attributes. Based on the results, strategic planning is formulated for the main stakeholders of the resettlement community from planning, construction, and governance. This study’s results are of great significance when optimizing the spatial distribution of resettlement communities, enhancing the living function of resettlement communities, realizing the equity of resource access for resettled residents, and promoting social integration.