Suitability Analysis of Water Cultural Heritage Structures in Beijing Based on Analytic Hierarchy Process and Geographic Information Systems

Abstract

As significant physical carriers of hydraulic science and technology, water cultural heritage (WCH) structures might exert positive effects on the economy, society, and environment. However, it is challenging to develop a scientific conservation plan due to the lack of comprehensive cognition and value assessment criteria for the vast majority of WCH structures. In this study, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and geographic information systems (GIS) were introduced to develop a multidimensional evaluation system for WCH in Beijing based on the suitability perspective. This approach proposes a strategy covering macro, meso, and micro levels based on three aspects: heritage value, spatial distribution, and environmental resistance. The findings indicated that there are significant differences in values among the nine heritage categories, and royal gardens and rivers were suggested for greater emphasis on protection. Besides, the distribution of WCH structures is clustered, which can be categorized into four distinct agglomerative zones. Most of the heritage sites are found on built-up land with low elevation and gentle slopes, resulting in high environmental suitability. Lastly, we proposed a framework for conservation with “one centre, two wings, one area, and a multi-node” to facilitate the development of effective policies by decision-makers.