Evaluating Geometric and Structured Fractal Analysis Methods to Determine the Optimal Approach for Urban Road Network Assessment

Urban networks are often classified as complex elements that influence the growth of cities beyond their boundaries. These networks are analysed using numerous approaches, tools, where fractal dimensions provide quantitative assessment of the spatial organisation. This study applies geometric and structured (network-based) fractal analysis techniques to the road network of Metropolitan City of Cagliari (MCC). It highlights the methodological differences and their implications across diverse fields. The geometric fractal analysis was conducted using Fractalyse, whereas the structured fractal analysis was performed using R programming. The findings derived from the structured approach (the latter) demonstrated a greater fractal dimension than those from the geometric approach (the former). This discrepancy suggests that the structured analysis approach provides a more accurate representation of the complexity in urban road network within the research area under study. Therefore, it captures the nuanced distinctions of connectivity and hierarchy which are sometimes omitted in geometric approaches. The analysis also reveals the importance of selecting appropriate methodologies to achieve higher accuracy in urban form assessments, especially when investigating spatial criteria such as accessibility and resilience. The findings highlight the potential of using structured fractal techniques in urban accessibility and planning applications. They can accurately assess complicated network behaviour and guide future research by integrating them with spatial analytic methods and tools. This study aids urban planners and researchers in evaluating urban infrastructure according to developing spatial demands using this robust framework.