Spatial association of coastal towns and villages in Funing District, Qinhuangdao: A study using social network analysis

Abstract

This study aims to explore how the spatial network structure between towns and villages can be optimized, which is a crucial element of rural revitalization strategies. For this investigation, we choose Funing District in Qinhuangdao, situated along the coastal region of the Bohai Sea. To achieve this, a gravity model is constructed through integration and collection of data, then applied social network analysis (SNA) techniques. Empirical analysis is conducted using ArcGIS and the NetworkX library in Python to uncover essential aspects of the town-village network in Funing District, including overall network density, centrality, cohesive subgroups, and core-periphery structures. The results of this research reveal a core-periphery structure in the town-village network of Funing District, highlighting significant hierarchical differences among nodes regarding spatial connectivity. With these findings in mind, specific measures are proposed to improve the flow of elements between nodes and optimize the spatial network structure. These measures encompass enhancing the strategic position of urban nodes, endorsing rural revitalization initiatives, and actively advocating for the establishment of a spatial layout embodying "one core, three stars, four guards, one axis and one belt" to facilitate resources and elements integration between urban and rural locales. Furthermore, this study offers valuable insights and references for town-village planning and development across the Bohai Rim region, encompassing the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei area and analogous regions.