By simulating the distribution situation of urban landuse, practical reference can be provided for the future social and economic development of Lianyungang city and effective ecological environment protection. The urban expansion simulation of Lianyungang region is done by using GeoSOS. By using the artificial neural network and cellular automata model, urban space pattern is simulated to find out the factors of urban driving force. The results indicate: (1) The city of lianyungang and its

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... are expanding fast. There are big differences of the speed and scale of urban expansion in different spatial positions; (2) Urban expansion mainly depends on the encroachment of sorrounding high-quality farmlands; (3) The main driving forces of urban expansion include the environment of approaching to the Yellow Sea and the high-speed economic development of Lianyungang city.