Transformation of urban spatiotemporal systems, by the example of retail impact to large hosing estate areas of Leningrad—St. Petersburg, 1989—2016

Abstract

Using the example of retail development in the former socialist large housing estate areas of Leningrad—St. Petersburg in 1989—2016 the paper outlines and provides evidence for 3 principles of the spatiotemporal systems (STS) development under urban transformation: principle of essence changing during transformation of a STS; principle of joined-up nature of spatial, temporal and essence-based parameters of urban STS (USTS); possibility of mismatch of spatial, temporal and substantive hierarchies of transformational USTSs. Paper describes 6 stages of spatial development of retail during the studied period and corresponding spatial forms and peculiarities of retail STS spatial development: early transformation; first stage of administrative reform; pavilions and market places; specific transformational forms displacement; domination of large stationary trade forms; convenience shops stage. Corresponding spatial forms and specificities of retail STSs organization in former socialist large housing estate areas are characterized as well: kiosks and stand-alone-sellers agglomerations near metro stations and public transport stops; kiosks and pavilions agglomerations near metro stations plus market places; retail tents and other mobile trade forms near metro stations plus new market places; large shopping centers, stationary market places plus kiosk chains; hypermarkets, chained stationary shops, temporary agglomerations of mobile facilities near metro stations; convenience shops and illegal kiosks. Specific methodology of complex STSs research was developed and tested.