A method for the determination of urban transformation areas in Kocaeli

Abstract

With changes in urbanization dynamics in the world, transformation issues and approaches have also changed. New approaches are needed to determine intervention areas and priorities, especially in situations that affect the whole city, such as disaster risks. In this study, the subject of the case of Kocaeli (Turkey) has been examined, and a methodology for evaluating urban space in terms of urban transformation has been developed. The study is rooted in the following research questions: Is it possible to determine urban transformation zones by scoring urban areas? How could urban space be classified by using components that represent different problems in urban space in terms of urban transformation? For this purpose, a geographic database with weighted scores was created by using three main components: Problems in the Built Environment, Disaster Risks, and Lack of Urban Services. Local Moran's I was calculated to test the type of distribution and its significance on cells. Grouping Analysis was run by using each component's scores in significantly clustered cells as inputs. As a result, six regions were revealed in the entire urban area of Kocaeli. The results signal a well-established method for discovering and representing both the unique and identical nature of urban space regarding urban transformation. The method enables decision makers to develop area-specific policies and strategies in the process of preparing urban transformation master plans.