City Planning Project III-I
Provides a comprehensive framework for urban and regional analysis by integrating technical calculations and spatial synthesis to develop master and strategic plans.
Comprehensive Urban Analysis and Regional Planning
In this lecture, students engage with the holistic analysis of a settlement and its surrounding environment. The course is designed to develop technical proficiency in producing all necessary numerical calculations and analyses required for crafting robust urban plans. Emphasis is placed on synthesizing spatial data to formulate both an environmental order/strategic plan at the urban regional scale and a master plan (nazım imar plan) at the city scale.
By integrating technical expertise with professional planning knowledge, students learn how to systematically assess, model, and propose interventions that address urban challenges.
This lecture provides a comprehensive toolkit for understanding and shaping the broader urban and regional context in a precise and adaptable manner.
For a clearer understanding, I will elaborate on my project work for the first semester of my third year as an undergraduate in the following section:
1 / 5000 Master Development Plan
This project focuses on shaping the future of Narlıdere, İzmir, through a 1/5000 scale Master Development Plan that emphasizes healthy, safe, and modern living environments. With an area of approximately 6,300 hectares, the plan is designed to support Narlıdere’s global potential in education, fairs, and tourism. Key strategies include balancing infrastructure with topography, enhancing accessibility, and designing inclusive public spaces.
The following sections present a series of analytical and design-based maps that informed and supported the development of the proposed vision for Narlıdere.
Threshold Analysis
The threshold analysis examines the physical and environmental constraints that influence development potential within the project area. By identifying features such as steep slopes, water bodies, fault lines, and protected natural areas, this analysis guides land use decisions and helps determine where urban development should be encouraged or limited. It forms the foundation for sustainable planning and ensures that natural thresholds are respected in the development process.
Current Population Density Analysis
Analyzing the current population density reveals how people are distributed across the planning area today. This data highlights areas with overcrowding, underutilization, or uneven service provision. Understanding existing conditions enables planners to address spatial inequalities and design a more balanced and efficient urban form in the proposed plan.
Transportation Diagram
This diagram outlines the proposed transportation roads. The plan emphasizes connectivity, accessibility, and integration with regional systems. It also takes into account topography and aims to reduce traffic congestion and efficient circulation patterns. Of course, the road hierarchy was taken into account.
2036 Population Forecasts
This section provides a projection of the population growth expected in Narlıdere by the year 2036, based on demographic trends and regional development policies. The forecasts are essential in determining the scale of housing, infrastructure, and social services required. They also help align the plan with realistic growth scenarios and prepare the area for future urban demands. On the map it is possible to see population estimates for existing housing areas and development housing areas.
Proposed Population Density
The proposed population density map reflects the strategic redistribution of population to accommodate forecasted growth while ensuring livability. Density is planned with consideration for accessibility, infrastructure capacity, and environmental sensitivity. The goal is to promote compact development in suitable areas, reduce urban sprawl, and provide equitable access to services and public amenities.
Green Axis Diagram
The green axis concept aims to create a network of green corridors that connect natural areas, fair, parks, and recreational spaces. This system enhances ecological continuity, promotes biodiversity, and supports urban resilience. The diagram illustrates how these green axes are distributed across the plan area and integrated with recreational points.
Functional Area
Planning Decisions
Residential Areas
- Classified into low- and medium-density zones based on topography and existing settlements.
- No residential development allowed in forests, stream beds, or slopes >40%.
- Integrated planning with transport, infrastructure, and ecology.
Commercial Areas
- Existing and proposed commercial areas reassessed based on land use and population.
- Removed zones incompatible with context or demand.
- New areas proposed near intersections and residential zones for accessibility and equity.
Mixed-Use Areas
- Combine housing, commercial, and services to create vibrant urban life.
- Located along main roads and transport corridors.
- Emphasize walkability and public space quality with sustainable design principles.
Green & Recreational Spaces
- Increased per capita green space with parks, forests, and green corridors.
- Established continuous green networks via stream beds and forest edges.
- Preserved existing green areas and rehabilitated degraded ones.
Transportation Areas
- Aligned with İzmir's upper-scale transportation plans.
- Defined road hierarchies and improved local-regional connectivity.
- Enhanced public transport transfer points and access.
- Prioritized pedestrian and cycling infrastructure.
Social & Technical Infrastructure
- Reorganized facility distribution by demographic forecasts.
- Facilities located within walking distance to housing.
- Infrastructure sized based on capacity and access.
- Disaster preparedness with assembly areas and emergency routes.
Educational Services Review
This section analyzes the spatial distribution and capacity of existing and proposed educational facilities, including kindergartens, primary and secondary schools, and higher education institutions. It shows the proposed new educational facilities in areas of growth, as well as the existing ones, to address service gaps and ensure equal access to quality education across Narlıdere.
Health Services Review
An evaluation of health services identifies the location and accessibility of hospitals, clinics, and family health centers. This review shows how the proposed additional health infrastructure is designed to meet future population needs and improve public health outcomes. It ensures that health facilities are strategically placed to serve all parts of the community.
Recreation and Sports Services Review
The plan reviews the availability and distribution of sports facilities, playgrounds, and recreational centers. These services play a key role in enhancing community well-being and promoting active lifestyles. The analysis shows the placement of new recreational areas in alignment with population density and open space strategies.
Worship Places and Cultural Services Review
This review assesses the provision of religious and cultural facilities within the planning area. These spaces are essential for fostering social cohesion and cultural expression. The plan supports the establishment of worship places and cultural centers in accessible and meaningful locations, reflecting the diverse needs of the community.
As a result of the above-mentioned proposals for the project area, the square meters of educational facilities per capita have been increased, and the amount of green space per person has shown a significant rise, exceeding 10 square meters per capita. Additionally, the social facility provision rate has increased substantially—from 13.5% to 40.2% in relation to residential areas.
To explore the planning decisions in greater depth, the complete project report (Turkish) is available for download here.