Spatial Structure of an Urban Park System Based on Fractal Theory: A Case Study of Fuzhou, China

The rationality and efficiency of the spatial structure of an urban park system are critical in building a livable urban environment. Fractal theory is currently treated as the frontier theory for exploring the law of complex systems; however, it has rarely been applied to urban park systems. This study applied the aggregation, grid and correlation dimension models of fractal theory in Fuzhou, China. The spatial structure and driving factors of the urban park system were analyzed and an innovative model was proposed. The evidence shows that the spatial structure of the park system has fractal characteristics, although self-organization and optimization have not yet been fully formed, revealing a multi-core nesting pattern. Moreover, the core is cluster of four popular parks with weakening adsorption, and the emerging Baima River Park is located at the geometric center, which is likely to be further developed. The system structure is primarily driven by geographical conditions, planning policies, and transportation networks. Against this backdrop, an innovative model for the park system was proposed. The central park has heterogeneity and synergistic development, relying on the kinds of flow which can lead to the formation of a park city, a variation of a garden city. At the regional scale, relying on the geographical lines, the formation of a regional park zone could be realized. These findings provide new perspectives to reveal the spatial structure of urban park systems. The information derived can assist policy makers and planners in formulating more scientific plans, and may contribute to building a balanced and efficient urban park system.