In the evolving landscape of infrastructure development, both urban and rural regions are focusing on more sustainable, efficient, and integrated growth models. One such model gaining attention is the “Zhongshan Fixed Point” approach, a key concept in urban planning and infrastructure development that has significant potential for enhancing the quality and connectivity of public services, transportation, and economic activities 中山定點. Named after Zhongshan, a city in Guangdong Province, China, the fixed point approach represents a strategic method of urban planning that centralizes resources and focuses development around specific nodes or “fixed points.”

What is the Zhongshan Fixed Point?

The “Zhongshan Fixed Point” approach is an urban planning concept that advocates for designating specific geographic locations within a city, region, or even an entire province as central hubs or focal points for infrastructure development. These fixed points serve as critical intersections where multiple layers of infrastructure — such as transportation, energy, healthcare, education, and economic hubs — converge. The idea is that by concentrating investment and resources in these focal points, a region can experience a more balanced and integrated development.

While the concept can be applied broadly, Zhongshan, with its strategic positioning between Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Macau, serves as a prime example of how fixed points can facilitate growth. The city has become a model for surrounding areas, using its centralized approach to urbanization as a template for other cities in Guangdong and beyond.

Key Benefits of the Zhongshan Fixed Point Approach

  1. Enhanced ConnectivityOne of the primary advantages of the Zhongshan Fixed Point model is its ability to improve regional connectivity. By clustering infrastructure projects around specific fixed points, cities can ensure better transportation networks that link key urban areas to suburban and rural zones. This means improved access to roads, railways, and public transit systems. In the case of Zhongshan, enhanced connectivity with the larger megacities in Guangdong, such as Guangzhou and Shenzhen, has made it easier for people to commute, goods to be transported, and services to be more accessible.
  2. Economic Growth and Regional IntegrationConcentrating investment around fixed points leads to the creation of dynamic economic hubs. These fixed points are more likely to attract industries, businesses, and investors due to their enhanced infrastructure, proximity to major transportation networks, and availability of skilled labor. For Zhongshan, this has resulted in a booming economy, particularly in manufacturing, technology, and services sectors. When multiple regions can access a central, well-developed hub, they benefit from shared growth and regional integration.Moreover, these fixed points often become areas of innovation, as concentrated infrastructure development promotes collaboration between private and public sectors. Local governments can prioritize resources to support emerging technologies, sustainable practices, and high-value industries.
  3. Urbanization with SustainabilityOne of the challenges that comes with rapid urbanization is ensuring that growth is sustainable, equitable, and environmentally responsible. The Zhongshan Fixed Point approach helps mitigate some of these challenges by promoting more efficient land use and resource allocation. With fixed points, developers can focus on building infrastructure that not only addresses current needs but also plans for future growth and environmental sustainability.For example, Zhongshan has incorporated green building standards, smart city technology, and sustainable transport networks in its fixed-point areas, making these regions more energy-efficient and less reliant on polluting modes of transport. By investing in cleaner energy solutions and more sustainable city planning, the Zhongshan Fixed Point model serves as a prototype for sustainable development in other growing cities.
  4. Improved Public ServicesCentralizing public services in fixed points enhances accessibility for residents. By strategically placing schools, hospitals, libraries, and other civic amenities near these hubs, cities can ensure that all citizens, regardless of their income or location, have access to essential services. This model works particularly well in balancing urban and rural needs, as resources can be more evenly distributed across a wider area without overloading any single part of the city.
  5. Efficient Resource AllocationTraditional urban planning often leads to scattered development, where resources like electricity, water, and telecommunications are spread thin across large geographic areas. The Zhongshan Fixed Point approach allows for more efficient resource management by focusing investment on specific, high-priority areas. By doing so, these resources can be used more efficiently, reducing waste and minimizing costs for both governments and businesses. Additionally, utilities and infrastructure systems can be optimized and modernized to meet the growing needs of an expanding population.

Challenges to Consider

While the Zhongshan Fixed Point approach offers numerous benefits, it is not without its challenges. The most notable of these is ensuring that surrounding regions do not become underserved or left behind. If development becomes too centralized, other areas may experience stagnation. It’s crucial for urban planners to balance the focus on fixed points with an inclusive approach to regional development.

Additionally, the rapid pace of technological change and environmental concerns pose risks. It’s important to plan for adaptability — ensuring that these fixed points can evolve and adjust to future innovations, such as autonomous vehicles, renewable energy systems, and smart infrastructure.

Conclusion

The Zhongshan Fixed Point model has proven to be an innovative and effective framework for enhancing infrastructure development. By concentrating resources and development around key focal points, cities like Zhongshan are achieving greater connectivity, fostering economic growth, promoting sustainability, and improving public services. For cities and regions looking to optimize their development strategies, the fixed point approach offers a balanced, sustainable pathway for future growth — one that can help create more resilient, interconnected, and thriving urban spaces for the 21st century.