In
geography, a
linear settlement is a (normally small to medium-sized) settlement or group of buildings that is formed in a long line. Many follow a transport route, such as a road, river, or canal though some form due to physical restrictions, such coastlines, mountains, hills or valleys, as in the case of
Victoria,
Hong Kong. Linear settlements may have no obvious center, such as a road junction or green. Linear settlements have a long and narrow shape.