Delimitation of rural and urban areas from spatial data in statistical grids: the province of Jaén (Spain) as a case study

The availability of spatial data in grids allows to enrich the statistics ranked by census units, being of great interest for regional analysis and territorial planning. The objective of this work is the elaboration of cartography, independent of administrative boundaries, which collects demographic data, accessibility and major land uses in cells of one square kilometre. Applying a methodology that has allowed the assignment of a category related to the predominant territorial model in each grid, the main result is a synthesis map of the rural-urban gradient that can be recognised in the province of Jaén, showing the contrasts and imbalances derived from the physiographic conditions and the recent territorial changes.Key policy highlightsWe propose a method for mapping the spatial differentiation of the rural-urban gradient.We use demographic, accessibility and predominant land use variables integrated into six different categories.The scale, variables, thresholds and combinations of spatial information must be adapted to each particular territory and problem.The method used is suitable for diagnosing plans and measures to face the demographic challenge and territorial polarization.