Analysis of Residential Area Suitability Based On the Regional Spatial Planning (RTRW) of Banda Aceh City, Indonesia

Abstract

Rapid urbanization in Banda Aceh has intensified pressure on land resources, creating challenges in maintaining consistency between actual land use and the Regional Spatial Plan (RTRW) 2009–2029. This study evaluates the spatial conformity of residential land use, examines land-use change patterns, and identifies the key factors influencing residential development. An integrated approach is employed, combining Geographic Information Systems (GIS)-based spatial overlay analysis with multiple linear regression modeling. The findings reveal a significant expansion of built-up areas, particularly residential land, alongside a substantial decline in non-built areas such as green open space and water bodies. This trend indicates a clear pattern of urban sprawl and the ongoing conversion of environmentally sensitive land. Spatial analysis shows varying levels of conformity with the RTRW, where some land-use categories remain aligned with planning directives, while others, especially residential areas and green open space, exhibit notable deviations, reflecting gaps between planning and implementation. Regression results indicate that Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) and distance to the Central Business District (CBD) are the most influential factors driving residential development, emphasizing the dominant role of economic growth and spatial accessibility. In contrast, population density, infrastructure, and land-use conversion show limited statistical significance. These findings suggest that urban growth in Banda Aceh is primarily shaped by economic and locational factors rather than regulatory controls alone. This study contributes by providing an integrated spatial–econometric framework to assess land-use conformity and supports more effective and sustainable spatial planning in rapidly growing secondary cities.