The development nexus of high-speed rail station areas and local cities in the Yangtze River Delta, China

Abstract: The high-speed rail (HSR) network has developed extensively in China over the past two decades. HSR has become an important driving force for urban and regional development. At various levels, the government initiated HSR-oriented and integrated development between the HSR station area and the local city. In this study, we critically analyse a case study of the Yangtze River Delta (YRD), the pioneer of HSR network development in China. The development nexus of HSR station areas and local cities was examined through three dimensions: city centre–station distance, station-city functional connections, and station type (upgraded and newly built HSR stations). The results indicate a trend of mutually reinforcing development between national and regional hub cities and the station areas of their main HSR stations. However, the station areas of other HSR stations and local cities showed a weaker functional relationship. It is crucial to consider the diverse travel needs and visions of local urban development when planning HSR station locations and station area development.