An indicator for integrated regional planning

Abstract

In recent years, the emphasis on utilizing data-driven strategies for territorial planning has grown significantly. Present indicators exhibit certain limitations, notably their singular focus on a sole dimension, insufficient availability of actionable data, and constraints on the territorial approach due to conditions exclusive to specific territories. We propose a novel framework to build a composite indicator that measures the multidimensional activity of a region. Based on data from electronic payments, energy consumption, traffic congestion, and public transport usage, the indicator was implemented in the western region of Portugal, and its spatial and temporal variations across 12 municipalities were analysed. We discuss the implications of the results for regional planning and policy making. This work can enrich the resources available for territorial planners and policymakers, by providing a replicable framework for supporting spatiotemporal granular data-driven decision-making, gauging policies and interventions, and contributing to sustainable planning at the regional level.