Potentials of Polycentric Urban Regions in British Columbia, Canada

Sammanfattning: British Columbia is characterized by a relatively hierarchical urban system. This study aims to identify areas of potential for the development of Polycentric Urban Regions (PURs) to provide a counterweight to the dominant urban core and to develop higher functions in peripheral areas to increase their long-term viability. Three methods are employed to assess the spatial-functional and political-institutional dimensions of organizing capacity for the development of PURs: spatial analysis to determine proximity between population centres by driving time and distance; Pareto analysis to measure the existing degree of polycentricity in regional districts; and a survey of regional planners to assess their knowledge, current planning activities and attitudes towards polycentricity. Eleven areas with potential for PUR development were identified, which each have unique spatial and political challenges and opportunities. In general, many areas have good spatial conditions, but differences in the role of the regional district as a planning coordinator will make a common approach to PUR development challenging. In future studies of these regions, it is recommended to focus on the outcomes of PUR development and the benefits that could be realized in each region according to more specific local conditions.