H. Dadashpoor, H. Jalili,
Volume 29, Issue 1 (6-2019)
Abstract
In recent decades, remarkable changes have occurred in the spatial structure of metropolitan regions, creatingdiscontinuous, scattered and polycentric development which have significant implications for commuting patterns. This study examines the dynamics of spatial structure using interaction flow patterns in Mashhad Metropolitan Region (MMR). Four dimensions - centrality and dominance, network cohesion, interaction strength and levels and hierarchy - were used to analyse population flows in 1999, 2007 and 2012, showing that the interaction between Mashhad and other cities in the MMR increased over the time. However, the growth was inflows to the principal city grew considerably while the outflows decreased from 1999 to 2012 suggesting that the spatial structure of the MMR is monocentric despite the focus of development policies on polycentric development. Thus, it is necessary to adopt an integrated and multi-sectoral approach to develop a polycentric metropolitan region in order to protect the environment and reinforce inter-city relationships, manage travel demand, reduce unnecessary trip, and restrict sprawl. These policies lead to more convergence and polycentric development.
