Urbanization and Perceptions of Citizens on Urban Transformation: Yeşildere Case

Abstract

In the 1950s with the urbanization process of Turkey, rapid migration movements towards the cities have taken place and gecekondu settlements have emerged because of the decrease in agricultural activity, the increase in job opportunities in industry and commerce, and lack of adequate housing stock in the cities. Over time, urban transformation projects of the gecekondus in the city center, which have developed unplanned and have many physical problems, have come to the fore. This study aims to examine the effects of urbanization policies on urban space and the life of the citizens through Yeşildere region. In the research, a case study was conducted on Yeşildere, a gecekondu settlement and urban transformation area, and in-depth interviews were conducted with people who lived and are living in Yeşildere. According to the information obtained from the participants, while living in gecekondu has physical disadvantages and social advantages, the opposite is valid for mass housing or apartments. At the same time, it has been observed that urban transformation projects being implemented are not sufficient and improvements are needed in health, education, transportation, and social services while improving the physical environment. In this sense, it is recommended to carry out multi-layered and community-centered transformation studies with the participation of the public and the cooperation of different actors.