Spatial interdependence in a metropolitan setting

Consideration is given to the spatial structure of the metropolitan area, and to the tendency for this to be generalized in terms of the stark dichotomy of city and suburbs. Focusing on a four-zone metropolitan area, a model of spatial interaction is outlined, the components of which are based on intersectoral trade, labour mobility, and consumption-expenditure patterns. These components are drawn together as layers in an organized sequence of processes. The linked components are shown to give rise to intricate patterns of spatial interdependence. These have the effect of blurring the city-suburbs distinction, and are fundamentally different from comparable patterns at other spatial scales.