Abstract:

The structure and framework of an urban fringe area considerably influence sustainable urban development as it is a dynamic region in the urbanization process. Hence, this area becomes an essential subject in the fields of geography and planning, prompting numerous studies to comprehend its dynamics. Based on relevant literature from 1991 to 2021, we explore in-depth the conceptual evolution of the urban fringe areas. We analyze the connotations of the urban fringe concept and establish a research framework for connotative analysis from three perspectives: characteristic elements, research perspectives, and derivative concepts. Utilizing this framework, we reclassify the types of urban fringe areas to establish a classification system for urban-rural, urban-urban, and urban-field fringe areas. Furthermore, based on fringe area theory, we gain a deep understanding of urban fringe concepts. Studies reveal the complexity and extensive nature of the concept of urban fringe areas. While scholars generally agree on its cognitive and essential connotations, there exist variations in its interpretations. The urban shadow area and the urban-rural interface are described from urban and suburban viewpoints, respectively, while the urban-rural linkage and urban-rural fringe encompass both urban and suburban perspectives. Urban-rural linkage denotes a stage of integration between urban and rural areas, marked by temporal and spatial distinctions. Additionally, the urban-rural fringe, a native concept, focuses more on sociological issues within the region. The periurban and urban fringe areas combine urban, rural, and suburban elements, exhibiting diverse composite characteristics. Conversely, urban fringe areas offer a more balanced analytical perspective, better describing interactions within the region. Analysis of urban-rural social and economic factors indicates that 84.42% of research on territorial spatial evolution in the fringe area focuses on land, population, and economic factor interactions. However, other critical factors necessitate further research. The fringe area can be understood from a systematic and integrated perspective, encompassing urban, rural, and field spaces, with the urban-rural fringe area being the most widely recognized framework. Thus, future work should focus on enhancing the theoretical framework of urban fringe areas and gathering data to establish a comprehensive evaluation system that considers multiple factors, scales, and dimensions. Moreover, dynamic research on small and medium cities over a long period is crucial. This will enable the investigation of inter-regional correlations and couplings, leading to rational planning and sustainable urban-space development.

Key words: urban fringe, connotation identification, cognition system, research overview