Experimental settlements in the spatial development of the country: localization and forms of organization

The concept of a “new experimental settlement” was introduced in the Spatial Development Strategy of the Russian Federation until 2030, and it needs to be further clarified and developed in terms of methodology for allocation and implementation. This proposed text aims to define the spatial principles for the localization of experimental cities, as well as the main models and drivers for their development. Considering various factors, it is proposed not to create these settlements from scratch but to reformat existing small towns. Among the settlements in the Lower Volga region, potential candidates for experimental cities have been identified. The possibility of implementing a combined development model for these cities is explored, and the most suitable urban development models and their potential for complementarity are analyzed for this purpose. The principle of a poly-model approach in the development of these new experimental settlements is justified.. Local communities are seen as a crucial factor in the success of the experimental city project. Ways to scale the positive experience of project implementation are suggested, and its limitations are discussed