A communication and participation-oriented model proposal for current urban transformation processes

International Journal of Human Sciences, cilt.17, sa.2, ss.415-431, 2020 (Hakemli Dergi)

Abstract

Research Problem: Urban transformation planning policies, which have been the focus during

the last decade in Turkey, have begun to progress with renewal of risky areas with the

introduction of Law No. 6306. While it was stated that increasing the quality of life and social

rehabilitation of area residents were targeted in transformations where neighborhoods are

transformed into urban land, in fact, resident expectations were not met and the residents, who

experienced dissatisfaction in the transformed environments that were not suitable for their

lifestyles, left these areas or continued their lives in despair due to economic reasons. Ignorance

of resident expectations in transformation process reduces their quality of life and only through

participation the residents, who are the actors that experience the impact of transformation the

most, could express their preferred lifestyle. Aim: The present study aimed to propose a

participatory transformation model in transforming the current transformation framework into a

user-oriented approach. Method: In the development of the model, the participation scenarios /

strategies were integrated into the break points in the process defined in Law No. 6306 which

underlines the current urban transformation dynamics. Findings: Each experience that different

transformation processes which the proposed model could be applied based on its own dynamics

would create new structuring processes that would contribute to the model. Based on the model,

it was aimed to establish continuous communication and information flow between users,

architects, authorities and other stakeholders, to increase socio-physical satisfaction of the

residents since the residence and residential environment would be built based on resident

demands and to sustain the sense of belonging and satisfaction of the residents with the

preferences. Conclusion: The process based on the proposals that were determined with

participation principle and continuous communication between all stakeholders and especially the

architect and residents would establish the foundation for not only to secure risky buildings, but

also for socially and economically sustainable urban transformation projects that would provide

added value to the city and improve the quality of life of urban residents.

Keywords: Urban transformation; resident participation; participation model; law no. 6306;

quality of life.