Sustainable Spatial Development Strategy 2030: from Scientific Evidence to Implementation

Abstract

The article examines and proposes to discuss a number of issues related to the implementation of the balanced spatial development strategy of the Russian Federation 2030: the policy of artificial increase the population of agglomerations and large cities; the planned compaction of agglomerations through the placement of settlements with typical cottage buildings for the population from the depressed settlements and the creation of the Institute for Spatial Planning. The policy has been developed by the Aggressive Infrastructure Working Group, headed by Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Mr. Husnullin. Its implementation is envisaged at the first stage (2022-2024) of the strategic initiatives developed within the framework of the strategy for sustainable and balanced development of Russia 2030. There are 3 types of ways to concentrate the population: resettlement of 5 million inhabitants in the agglomerations from depressed small settlements; erasure of administrative boundaries; the formation of agglomerations on a contractual basis. It is noted that despite the fact that all over the world agglomerations and large cities are considered as promising forms of settlement, their quantitative growth does not always lead to the positive qualitative results. The efficiency of agglomerations grows as the results by the influx of highly qualified specialists who stimulate the development of the modern innovative industries. The resettled population base is made up of the elderly, low-income and low qualification's groups of the residents. Administrative changes in boundaries are not always supported by close daily ties. The resource justifications for the planned strategy are insufficient, include value of funds which are allocated without knowledge of the need. The strategy was approved by officials, but did not receive the necessary discussion in the scientific community. It is much more relevant because the implementation of the strategy begins in 2022.