Influencing Factors Study of the Contemporary Spatial Expansion of Wuhan

Abstract

The rapid urban development of Chinas city during the transitional period has received extensive academic research and policy attention. This study inquired into the process, features and impact factors of spatial expansion in Wuhan during the transitional period. This study conducted a systematic research of the transitional urban space and using data analysis to explore the spatial logic and inherent laws underlying the spatial expansion of Wuhan. Based on data analysis via SPSS, three primary components closely related to urban land use change are identified. Corresponding influence factors under the spatial expansion are explored. Economic development, urbanization level, industrial structure, the foreign investment and other indicators drive the spatial expansion of Wuhan, and it is urgent to optimize the current space framework of the downtown areas for the creation of a sustainable and effective urban space form. This study also indicates the new trends of spatial expansion and relevant recommendations for the future development of Wuhan.