Multi-Scale Coordinated Optimization Framework for Territorial Space Based on Production–Living–Ecological Functions: A Case Study of the Central Yunnan Urban Agglomeration

To address the persistent challenges of the “disconnect between macro-level spatial zoning and micro-level land allocation” and the paradox of “localized intensification accompanied by overall inefficiency” in territorial spatial governance, this study adopts a multi-scale coupling perspective to explore an optimized spatial pattern that promotes the coordinated development of production, living, and ecological functions (PLEFs), thereby enhancing the systematic and scientific basis of spatial governance. Taking the Central Yunnan Urban Agglomeration (CYUA) as a case study, a coupled optimization framework integrating macro-scale spatial zoning and micro-scale land allocation was established. First, using multi-period land use data (2000–2020) in conjunction with multi-source geographic and socio-economic datasets, the correspondence between land use types and PLEFs was constructed, and the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of these functions were systematically analyzed. Second, the GMOP-PLUS model was employed to simulate and optimize land use patterns for 2035 under multiple development scenarios, and dominant spatial types were further refined based on grid-scale spatial suitability evaluation results. Third, the NRCA model was applied to identify comparative functional advantages at the county level. These advantages were comprehensively integrated with the revised dominant spatial types following the principle of “seeking common ground while preserving differences,” ultimately enabling the delineation of optimized territorial spatial development zones. The results indicate the following: (1) Throughout the study period, ecological space remained the dominant land use type (exceeding 75%), although its proportion gradually declined. Living space expanded markedly, while the internal structure of production space shifted toward industrial and mining land uses. (2) The planning control scenario was identified as the most suitable development pathway, exhibiting a spatial configuration characterized by a “central core with stronger development in the southeast than in the northwest.” Under this scenario, production and living spaces continued to expand, whereas ecological space maintained its dominant status. (3) Spatial suitability evaluation revealed a high degree of functional compatibility across the study area (79.01%), with ecological suitability prevailing. The revised dominant spatial types were predominantly ecological (78.94%), forming a hierarchical structure described as a “living core–production composite ring–ecological periphery.” (4) By integrating dominant spatial types with comparative functional advantages, the study area was classified into five major categories of territorial spatial development zones, for which differentiated governance strategies were proposed. This study provides methodological insights and practical guidance for improving refined territorial spatial management and advancing regional sustainable development.