Theoretical and methodological approach to the formation of key settlements to ensure balanced sustainable development of a constituent entity of the Russian Federation

Introduction. The Spatial Development Strategy of the Russian Federation until 2030 (with a forecast until 2036) has identified the development of key settlements (hereinafter referred as KS) as one of its priorities. Despite the fact that 2,160 KS have already been identified in the Russian Federation, the task of selecting the most priority ones to ensure balanced development remains relevant. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to develop methodological foundations for the formation of KS in the territory of the Russian Federation constituent entity.

Materials and methods. A comprehensive assessment methodology was adapted, including relative value criteria for the selection of territory, allowing the value of a municipal formation to be determined for the subsequent selection of the KS in its territory.

Results. A methodology for determining the KS of a constituent entity of the Russian Federation is demonstrated, and a matrix of priority factors for assessing a territory with the aim of assigning it the status of a key settlement of a constituent entity of the Russian Federation is being developed. As part of the implementation of the developed theoretical and methodological toolkit, presented electronic maps of the comprehensive assessment of the territory of the Rostov region. A settlement system was developed on the example of the village of Belaya Kalitva and the surrounding areas.

Conclusions. The developed toolkit is intended to improve the scientific and methodological framework for making decisions on determining the KS, highlighting priorities for development in the context of limited material and time resources, as well as the instability of the economic situation. The methodological framework is characterized by its universality due to the use of standard methods in a new combination and interpretation.

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