Drannikova E.A., Khamukov M.A. Continuity of Rural-Urban Space in Agglomerations of Agro-Industrial Regions of Southern Russia with a Resort and Recreational Component
Elena A. Drannikova
Branch of the MIREA – Russian Technological University in Stavropol, Stavropol, Russian Federation
Mukhamed A. Khamukov
Association of Antimonopoly Experts of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation
Abstract. In the context of increasing spatial polarization and dynamic urbanization diffusion across the South of Russia – particularly in the Stavropol and Krasnodar Territories as key agro-industrial regions – studying the continuity of rural-urban space within agglomerations with a pronounced resort and recreational component becomes particularly significant. This is essential for minimizing imbalances between rural and urban areas, harmonizing the agro-industrial and recreational sectors, and enhancing regional competitiveness in light of their geostrategic positioning. Key objectives include a comprehensive assessment of the level of spatial continuity, determining the maturity of agglomerations, analyzing key indicators of their development, identifying sectoral interlinkages, and developing evidence-based recommendations for optimizing spatial development. The methodological framework incorporates statistical and mathematical analysis, GIS analysis, comparative analysis, and general scientific methods of cognition, while the empirical basis is formed from official data from Rosstat (Russian Federal State Statistics Service), regional socio-economic development strategies, sectoral reports, and scientific publications in Russian and international academic journals. Findings indicate that the average level of agglomeration continuity is 0.58 and the maturity level is 0.66, showing positive dynamics driven by migration growth, investment inflows, and a post-crisis tourism boom. Key observations reveal that resort-oriented agglomerations – particularly Sochi and Caucasus Mineralnye Vody – demonstrate leadership due to the symbiosis of recreation with the agricultural sector and their polycentric structure; the Stavropol Territory exceeds others in terms of the agglomeration index; and industrial-agrarian zones (Novorossiysk and Stavropol agglomerations) require enhanced recreational integration due to infrastructure deficits. Proposed measures include establishing agro-transport corridors, creating agritourism zones, digitalizing monitoring through GIS platforms, and stimulating polycentric development. Authors’ contribution. Problem formulation, research on agglomerations in southern Russia, analyzing links between rural and urban territories, agribusiness, and recreation – joint work by the authors; E.A. Drannikova – global practices of integrating rural, urban, and recreational spaces; M.A. Khamukov – continuity of rural-urban space considering agrarian-industrial and recreational aspects.
Key words: continuity of rural-urban space, spatial connectivity of agglomerations, agro-industrial regions, resort and recreational component, maturity of agglomerations, polycentric development, urbanization diffusion, geo-strategic territory.
Citation. Drannikova E.A., Khamukov M.A., 2026. Continuity of Rural-Urban Space in Agglomerations of Agro-Industrial Regions of Southern Russia with a Resort and Recreational Component. Regionalnaya ekonomika. Yug Rossii [Regional Economy. South of Russia], vol. 14, no. 2, pp. 212-225. (in Russian). DOI: https://doi.org/10.15688/re.volsu.2026.2.18
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