Conceptual framework for strategic spatial planning of rural settlements in urban regions of Iran: A meta-synthesis study

In recent decades, rural settlements surrounding urban centers have faced numerous challenges due to various economic, environmental, and demographic transformations. Despite extensive scholarly attention and five decades of planning experience, Iran has achieved mixed results in addressing these issues. The country’s spatial planning is shaped by a complex interplay of political, economic, and social factors, often influencing decision-making and implementation. This study employs Sandelowski and Barroso’s well-regarded seven-step model to conduct a meta-synthesis analysis, systematically reviewing the research literature to develop a strategic framework for rural settlement planning in metropolitan regions. A total of 40 articles were selected and assessed using the CASP criteria, and the collected data was analyzed using Grounded Theory in conjunction with ATLAS.ti software. Based on the findings, the proposed framework adopts an integrated approach, incorporating key principles of institutionalization, social cohesion, sense of place, governance, environmental sustainability, semi-outward economic orientation, pluralism, flexibility, issue-focused perspectives, holistic analysis, contextualization, future orientation, strategic action, community participation, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation.