Evaluation of urban fragmentation in Craiova city, Romania

The study aims at establishing an integrated method for the analysis of urban functional and spatial disparities induced by the structure and functional zoning of urban space. The study area is represented by an urban territorial unit of 90 000 square meters situated in the central area of Craiova. Computer-based cartographic conversion from satellite images provides the general metric scale of the analyzed territory. At this stage, the scientific approach is concerned with the elaboration and use of two metric indexes in order to calculate the functional fragmentation within the reference perimeter. There are presented criteria for the delimitation of functional zones by taking into account the predominant function of individually assessed perimeters. Furthermore, metric data is analyzed by the use of relative functional fragmentation index (RFf) and absolute functional fragmentation index (AFf). Recorded parameters are compared to the optimum values of space fragmentation in order to point out the functional and spatial disparities of urban space. The method can be easily used for the analysis of functional fragmentation of any urban areas or as part of more complex urban studies. It can also constitute a useful tool for territorial planning, better balance of urban territory and modification of functional units in order to meet specific standards in the economy of urban land use (C) 2012 Published by Elsevier Ltd. Selection and peer-review under responsibility of ICELEI 2011