Urban planning model of waterfront recreation zones in the altai mountain region

Abstract

Introduction: Over the past quarter of a century, the issue of urban development within regional settlement systems has not been a priority for most policy-makers and professionals. Much more attention has been focused on the issues arising from the expansion of major metropolises: Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Kazan, and several others (seven in total). In the meanwhile, the urban development of unique natural landscapes in other regions has been progressing on its own, without major supervision or proper attention from the professional community. For instance, the pristine land along Lake Baikal has undergone urban development without proper planning documentation; vast areas in the Irkutsk Region have been sold off for logging; and the Altai Territory and the Republic of Altai are seeing intensive development of unplanned recreation hubs. Purpose of the study: The study is aimed to create an urban planning model for unique natural landscapes. Methods: We used such methods as multi-factor analysis, photographic footage, opinion poll, and graphical modeling. Results: Out study results in an original model that illustrates the optimal location of new recreation hubs, mindful of preserving the unique environmental qualities of the natural landscape.