Spatial optimization for urban green space (UGS) planning support using a heuristic approach

Urban green space (UGS) has rich ecological and social benefits, and is closely related to the well-being of residents. Its spatial equity is a major concern for both residents and planners. However, effective decision-making support tools for UGS planning are still lacking. This study therefore proposes a UGS spatial optimization method that takes spatial equity and conversion cost into account to optimize the UGS layout in Xuzhou, China. The essence of the purposed optimization method is to constantly adjust the conversion probability of alternative land parcels into UGS to obtain a UGS layout that minimizes the overall conversion cost under the constraints of per capita UGS and spatial equity requirements. It is suggested that UGS spatial configuration is highly complex and that basic spatial units, population distribution, spatial equity, and the costs of conversion all need to be considered when planning UGS, which moreover needs to be optimized based on various spatial analysis. UGS spatial optimization should be integrated with planning regulated indicators such as per capita UGS and spatial equity, the implementation of which should be feasible based on the current UGS layout and land use situation. The proposed UGS spatial optimization method can generate optimized UGS layouts that meet controlling demands of planning, lowering UGS construction costs while improving spatial utility. It can provide decision support for UGS planning and has broad application prospect.