Investigation of Urban–Canal–Rural Integration Characteristics Based on Multidimensional Connectivity Network Analysis: A Case Study of the Canal in Jiangsu Province, China

Abstract

The process of urbanization is limited by the widening urban–rural gap worldwide, which needs to be improved by reconsidering the interaction between urban and rural areas dynamically and systematically. This study aims to use multidimensional connectivity network analysis to answer the role of landscape resources as a connecting medium (represented by linear canals) penetrating the urban–rural space in urban–rural integration. First, this study proposes a framework of “Urban–Canal–Rural” from a multidimensional perspective. In this research, we re-examined the urban–rural differences within the region by using the canal as the central regional conduit connecting urban and rural areas. Then, an association network based on five dimensions was constructed, and the network's connectivity was detected. In light of this, the integration characteristics and factor flow mechanism of “Urban–Canal–Rural” were revealed. Based on the study, we identified the potential interactive advantages of urban–rural integration within the canal basin, which provides the strategy for the development of “Urban–Canal–Rural” integration. The study found that within the same region, “Urban–Canal–Rural” shows completely different correlation strengths in five dimensions, revealing that the urban–rural differences in the process of urbanization are closely related to the inadequate utilization of resources. It also confirmed the importance of multidimensional network construction in balancing the allocation of resources between urban and rural areas in the process of urban–rural integration. Finally, the relations of factor mobility and resource allocation to sustainable urban and rural development were discussed. The authors argued that core resources between rural and urban areas are the key variable in restructuring rural–urban relations to achieve sustainable development. In general, urban and rural development should maintain the integrity and balance of the regional system. Additionally, this study provides Chinese experience for the worldwide study of urban–rural sustainable development. How to scrutinize the new interaction and balance between urban and rural areas is an unavoidable topic for urban and rural development. Examining the issue of urban–rural differences in the process of urbanization from a dynamic and systematic perspective, we found a close relationship between the balance and utilization of regional resources and regional differences. This paper adopted a network analysis method and proposed a framework of “Urban–Canal–Rural” from a multidimensional perspective. It aimed to use multidimensional connectivity network analysis to answer the role of landscape resources as a connecting medium (represented by linear canals) penetrating the urban–rural space in urban–rural integration. Network analysis was used to grasp the whole picture of the urban–rural spatial structure and reveal the overall characteristics of the network structure to determine the optimal network connectivity and resource allocation. This method can be used to facilitate the optimization of interregional connectivity and resource allocation approaches, as well as the formulation and communication of consensus-building processes for planning and sustainable development management. It is applicable not only in the context of this study using Jiangsu Province as a case study but also can provide a generalized policy impact and development regulation basis for projects outside of China.