The published results have been obtained in the course of research on state contract to create the Volgograd region territorial planning scheme until 2030. The purpose of research is to develop a methodology of justification of rural areas selection for the formation of priority development zones contributing to the implementation of the spatial socio-economic development strategy of the region. The goal has been achieved as a result of the following tasks solution: generalization of domestic and foreign experience of long-term socio-economic planning, justification for the criteria used to evaluate and select the priority development zones in rural territories, application of ranking methods in carrying out a quantitative assessment, rural areas classification as a result of ranking and territorial features (the current system of administrative-territorial division and the existing natural water barriers). The leading role of crop production in solving problems of spatial socio-economic development of rural areas is proved. The criteria (population density and crop area) applied in the formation of rural area priority development zones are provided. A simple tool (ranking method) serving the decision-making basis for rural communities integration in priority development zones has been worked out. A reasoned choice of five priority development zones combining rural and urban settlements as well as three zones around the existing urban districts is given. These research results are used in preparation of justification of the priority development zones location in Volgograd region, in accordance with current Russian legislation.
Keywords: priority development areas, rural areas, socio-economic development, rankings, development strategy, crop production, acreage, population density.
