Assessing Site Selection of New Towns Using Ecological Potential Model (Cases of Hashtgerd, Parand, Andisheh)

One of the main policies of Islamic Republic of Iran, within the framework of organizing the metropolitan populations in Iran, has been the formation and expansion of new towns. The most important indicator for locating of new towns consists of physical, biological indicator, and local resources. This study aims, through the use of urban and rural ecological potential model, to examine natural ability of places considered for formation of three new towns (Hashtgerd, Parand and Andisheh). Studies indicate that Hashtgerd has the best circumstances and can be developed, while other towns; Parand and Andisheh, are sequentially placed on second and third position. Thus, empirical studies were carried out in this field which resulted in findings that point to suggestions which are offered.