Spatial planning at the macro and micro levels: Problems of taxonomy and polarization (on the example of the Volga-Ural macroregion)

Abstract

The issue of spatial planning includes the subject of taxonomy. It seems that it is necessary to switch to the practice of planning, in addition to the meso-level (subject of the Russian Federation), at two taxonomic levels: the macroregion and the economic microdistrict. To do this, the article identifies the main properties of these formations. On the example of the Volga-Ural macroregion the properties of integrity, complementarity and connectivity are analyzed. The idea of using micro-level nodal districts (economic micro-districts) is substantiated as objects of spatial planning. Territorial differences between economic microdistricts of the Saratov region are revealed.