Development of modern urban parks on the example of Baotou city

Abstract

This research aims to identify the principles of developing ecological parks in terms of their integration into the urban structure. Relevant informational materials and scientific publications devoted to modern urban parks were investigated. On the example of the parks built in Baotou сity (Inner Mongolia, China), including the Renmin Baotou, Nanhai Park and Saihantala Ecological Park, specific features of planning and integrating these entities into the urban context were defined. The principles of forming ecological city parks were classified, including: adaptation of the park to local conditions; overall planning of its basic elements; orientation towards bringing people closer to each other and to nature. Key trends in the development of modern urban parks were revealed. The influence of the following groups  of  factors  was  established:  historical,  regional  and  cultural;  functional  and  behavioural; landscape and ecological. In terms of urban construction and development, the three elements  – nature, city and people – are closely intertwined, influencing each other and constituting an organic whole. The establishment of ecological parks in a city contributes towards improving its environment and residents’ health. At the same time, in order to meet future demands, the park’s thematic scope and structure should agree with the city’s urban development strategy. Therefore, when constructing a city park, the strategy of its urban planning should be taken into account.