URBAN TRANSFORMATION
Urban transformation is the process of renewing and developing old and decayed structures, infrastructures, transportation systems, green spaces and elements that affect the quality of urban life in a modern, safe and sustainable manner. For this reason, urban regeneration projects around the world aim to increase the sustainability of urban areas, reduce environmental impacts, improve quality of life, ensure social participation and economic development. In Turkey, urban transformation is a strategy developed to reorganize the building stock and risky areas, especially in earthquake-prone regions. The concept of "Urban Transformation" came to our agenda in 2012 with the "Law No. 6306 on the Transformation of Areas under Disaster Risk" prepared by the government for earthquakes. There are two types of definitions in this law: 'Risky Building' and 'Risky Area'. As the public started to refer to the process of making risky buildings earthquake-resistant with the concept of "Urban Transformation", Law No. 6306 started to be pronounced as the Urban Transformation Law. The urban transformation process in Turkey generally includes the following steps:
1. Identification of Risky Areas: Urban transformation projects in Turkey are concentrated especially in earthquake-prone areas. Municipalities and relevant institutions identify risky areas by conducting earthquake risk analyses and similar technical studies.
2. Public Information and Participation: Residents in the identified risky areas are informed about the project and explained how the process will work. Public participation is ensured and their opinions are sought.
3. Technical and Legal Review: The technical condition of the buildings in risky areas is examined. In addition, legal arrangements are made at this stage, and compensation and other issues are regulated.
4. Financing and Financial Planning: Projects are usually financed by sources such as government subsidies, private sector investments and urban regeneration funds. Financial planning covers the project's budget, revenue sources and expenditures.
5. Implementation and Construction: Demolition of buildings in the identified risky areas and construction of new, safe structures take place in this phase. Projects such as infrastructure works and green space arrangements are also implemented.
6. Follow-up and Evaluation: After the project is completed, the effectiveness of the process is evaluated. Factors such as whether the project has achieved its objectives, its suitability to the needs of the society and similar factors are evaluated.
The most significant difference in the way urban regeneration projects are handled in Turkey compared to global standards is that a strategic planning process that holistically addresses issues such as transportation, infrastructure and green space at the city level is rarely addressed. Urban transformation is often a complex and lengthy process, so collaboration of multiple stakeholders, open communication and continuous evaluation are essential for its successful management.
In the implementation of urban regeneration projects in Turkey, most of the projects have been focused on the renovation of risky buildings. However, a holistic urban regeneration process in which public institutions, municipalities, private sector and civil society organizations cooperate is essential for proper planning. Transparent management, participatory planning and effective communication are important for the successful completion of these projects. In addition, issues such as residents' rights and environmental sustainability should also be taken into account in this process.