Tibor Navracsics

55749900700

Publications - 1

Defining daily space use patterns in Hungary: identification of functional urban centres with a multidimensional methodology

Publication Name: Regional Statistics

Publication Date: 2026-01-01

Volume: 16

Issue: 3

Page Range: 521-547

Description:

Some of the literature on catchment areas offers valuable insights into spatial units defined by the various types and functions of urban centres. In addition, a range of functional urban region delineation methodologies contribute significantly to understanding citizens' commuting habits. However, while the former often lacks a complex, multifunctional perspective, the latter typically focuses on labour market areas linked to global megacities. As a result, smaller centres fulfilling a wide range of everyday functions are frequently omitted from regional maps, and they remain hidden in the catchment area of larger cities. This research aims to address these gaps by proposing a method for identifying urban centres on the basis of multidimensional selection criteria. This approach enables the general mapping of their multifunctional catchment areas and their wider functional urban zones. This analysis extends the range of statistics commonly used: in addition to labour market commuting, it includes commuting for general and vocational education, as well as accounting for the accessibility of everyday commercial centres and frequently used urban-level public services. Owing to differing spatial organizing principles, this research highlights that everyday centres take on varied structural forms – justifying a multidimensional mapping approach that is in addition to traditional labour market commuting analyses. Although this study is grounded in the Hungarian context, its multidimensional approach to mapping functional urban catchment areas offers valuable insights and a flexible framework for international research. By integrating a wide range of everyday spatial behaviour indicators, this analysis not only deepens our understanding of urban networks but also provides urban planning and regional development professionals with a robust tool for identifying gaps in public service provision. In doing so, it can help increase access to essential services, particularly for residents in rural areas far from major urban centres, which are typically the focus of the literature.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.15196/RS160304