Application of weighted aggregated sum product assessment and geographical information system for urban development zoning

Urban growth modeling is a helpful tool to implement more informed decisions based on environmental standards and capabilities. This study aimed to develop a new multi-criteria decision approach for zoning of urban development land use in Zanjan Township, Iran. Effective criteria for urban development were identified from the literature. Then, the hybrid multi-criteria decision model of weighted aggregated sum product assessment (WASPAS) was applied for criteria weighting. Finally, these criteria were combined in a geographical information system (GIS) environment and urban development zones were determined. The results indicated that the central and eastern parts of the target area with an area of 232,127 hectares had the most suitable zones for urban development. Areas identified based on the results were consistent with field visits and the findings of experts. The above approach can provide more opportunities for urban planners and decision-makers to make decisions in the top levels of urban management requirements for all aspects.