City Planning Project VI-I

Examines a city within its regional context by analyzing social, economic, ecological, and historical factors to achieve a balanced approach to urban growth and rural development.

Urban Identity within a Regional Context

This lecture examines the city not as an isolated entity but as part of a larger regional framework. By analyzing an exemplar city alongside its surrounding environment, students explore key factors such as social differentiation, sectoral development, employment patterns, and the conservation of ecological and historical assets. The course is designed to provide insights into how urban growth can be harmonized with rural development, emphasizing the balance between modern planning practices and the preservation of cultural and natural values.

Through this integrative approach, students will develop an understanding of how to design and implement planning strategies that foster sustainable development while respecting the unique identity and context of both urban and rural spaces.

For a clearer understanding, I will elaborate on my project work for the first semester of my fourth year as an undergraduate in the following section:

Urban Identity within a Regional Context

1 / 100.000 Synthesis Study & Spatial Strategy Plan

The study area encompasses the provincial boundaries of Denizli and focuses on the concept of symbiotic relationships within urban and regional planning. The primary objective is to develop spatial strategies and environmental planning decisions that promote a sustainable and resilient urban model—Symbiotic City Denizli. Through the integration of economic, social, and spatial dimensions, the project aims to establish a comprehensive framework for managing urban growth, protecting valuable agricultural land, enhancing tourism and commercial activities, and encouraging efficient land use. Particular emphasis was placed on understanding the city's untapped potential despite its rich historical heritage and fertile agricultural lands. By doing so, the project seeks to propose a planning approach that balances development with conservation, supports economic diversification, and fosters environmentally conscious growth. In addition, the study aims to identify infrastructure needs, formulate population projections, and propose institutional arrangements in alignment with planning legislation to support the evolving settlement system.

Preliminary Research and Sectoral Analyses

As part of the preliminary research, extensive demographic projections were conducted to anticipate future population trends and infrastructure needs. Moreover, in-depth analyses of various plant production sectors were carried out, including field crops, vegetable production, fruit cultivation, viticulture, industrial crops, legumes, forage crops, and greenhouse (protected) agriculture. These assessments aimed to evaluate the region’s agricultural potential and its integration into broader spatial and economic strategies. The results of these analyses informed the development of the 1/100,000 Synthesis Study, Spatial Strategy Plan, and Environmental Master Plan, all of which seek to guide Denizli’s transformation into a more sustainable and symbiotic urban region.

1. Crop Agriculture Sector

Denizli’s agricultural structure is significantly shaped by crop production. The province hosts 505,332 hectares of agricultural land, of which 321,184 hectares are actively cultivated. Among the leading crops are cereals (especially wheat and barley), industrial crops (notably cotton and sunflower), and various fruits and vegetables. Cotton production, historically important, remains one of the primary products, contributing to both local textile industries and export markets. Additionally, vineyards, pomegranate, and cherry cultivation support local economies and promote agro-tourism potentials .

In Denizli Province, plant production is most prominent in the districts of Çivril, Acıpayam, and Sarayköy, with Çivril leading in total output. Agricultural residues, particularly from crops such as maize, wheat, cotton, and grapes, constitute a significant source of biomass. The district of Acıpayam produces the highest amount of plant waste, followed by Çivril and Tavas. Among these residues, maize accounts for the highest share of total waste (37.87%), while cotton contributes the least (1.99%). These by-products possess considerable bioenergy potential, with maize and vegetable residues yielding high levels of biogas and methane. This makes them suitable for the establishment of industrial-scale biogas facilities, especially in Acıpayam, Çivril, and Tavas.

In terms of agricultural inputs, diesel and fertilizer usage are substantial across the province. Diesel consumption varies by crop type, with maize requiring the highest amount per decare (11.88 liters), followed by other crops such as grapes and wheat. The data suggests that enhancing the utilization of plant waste for energy production could help offset significant diesel and fertilizer expenditures, thereby promoting more sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

2. Livestock Agriculture Sector

The livestock sector in Denizli is also highly developed, with a dominant presence of poultry, cattle, and ovine breeding. The city is especially known for its broiler (meat chicken) production, being among Turkey’s leading producers. Besides poultry, bovine and ovine livestock farming are prominent, contributing to meat, milk, and dairy products. This diversity supports the food processing industry and forms part of a circular economy model. Furthermore, animal husbandry is integrated with crop farming through the use of organic fertilizers, aligning with sustainability goals .

According to the data for Denizli Province, the district with the highest number of animals is Çivril, with a total of 1,825,007 animals, comprising 2.68% cattle, 6.52% small ruminants, and 90.80% poultry. In contrast, Babadağ has the lowest number of animals at 4,729. Across Denizli, there are 6,145,475 animals in total, 4.30% of which are cattle, 10.08% small ruminants, and 85.62% poultry. Feed consumption is also highest in Çivril, while Babadağ consumes the least. Notably, Denizli can meet its feed demand through the reuse of agricultural residues such as wheat and barley straw and fruit pulp. In terms of animal waste, the largest amount is produced in Çivril, and the least in Babadağ. This waste is also a source of energy, with Çivril generating the highest energy potential from animal waste.

3. Industrial Sector

Denizli’s industrial sector is characterized by strong textile, food processing, marble, and machinery industries. The city is widely recognized for its towel and bathrobe production, forming an essential export item. Denizli Organized Industrial Zone (Denizli OSB) and various smaller industrial areas house numerous manufacturing facilities. The synergy between agriculture and industry is evident in sectors like food processing (e.g., fruit drying and juice production) and textile, which leverages local cotton. Energy efficiency and renewable energy integration (e.g., solar) are also increasingly prioritized to align with sustainability objectives .

In Denizli Province, energy production is predominantly derived from natural gas power plants, accounting for approximately 65% of the total energy output. Among all energy sources, biogas power plants contribute the least. Sarayköy stands out as the most energy-productive district, while no energy production is observed in Babadağ, Baklan, Beyağaç, Buldan, Çameli, and Kale.

Regarding industrial waste, the highest volume comes from textile waste, followed by paper/cardboard and food waste. Plastic waste represents the smallest share. Despite the variety of waste types, significant energy recovery is only achieved from domestic waste oils and industrial oils.

4. Service Sector

The service sector is growing, driven by tourism, education, health, and trade. Denizli’s thermal tourism—centered around Pamukkale—is a significant draw, combining health and ecological tourism. Additionally, educational institutions, notably Pamukkale University, contribute to research and innovation. The health sector is supported by public and private hospitals, offering regional services. Retail and logistics services are expanding with urbanization. The combination of traditional crafts, tourism, and knowledge-based services makes the service sector a dynamic contributor to Denizli's economy .

Denizli Province has considerable tourism potential due to its rich historical and natural assets. Key sites include the ancient cities of Laodicea, Hierapolis, and Tripolis, showcasing cultural heritage from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Natural attractions such as Kefe and Topuklu Highlands, along with Süleymanlı and Işıklı Lakes, support eco-tourism, recreation, and biodiversity.

Analysis of tourism-related waste and energy values indicates that Pamukkale and Merkezefendi districts generate the highest energy from tourism waste. This is directly proportional to their accommodation capacities and waste quantities.

5. Topography Analysis

Denizli’s topography is varied and defines both land use and development patterns. Located in the Aegean Region, the province includes wide plains (e.g., Büyük Menderes Plain), basins, and mountainous areas. Elevations vary between 200 meters and over 2,500 meters (e.g., Honaz Mountain). This variety influences microclimates, agricultural suitability, and infrastructure planning. Steep slopes limit urban development and farming, whereas flat lands are used for intensive agriculture and settlement. Topography is also a determining factor in ecological corridor planning and risk management (e.g., erosion, flooding) .

6. Technical Infrastructure Analysis

Denizli’s technical infrastructure includes energy, water supply, sewage, transportation, and communication systems. The province benefits from geothermal and solar energy potentials, with increasing integration into the power grid. Water supply systems rely on both surface and underground sources, though seasonal fluctuations require efficient management. Wastewater is managed through treatment plants, yet expansion is needed in some areas. The transportation network includes highways and rail connections, with an airport providing regional access. Broadband and mobile infrastructure support digital transformation. Infrastructure planning is aligned with sustainable urban development and circular economy principles .

Denizli Province hosts several wastewater treatment facilities, with 35% of them concentrated in the districts of Çal and Tavas. However, the highest amount of sludge and the largest treatment capacity are found in Pamukkale district. Regarding energy recovery from waste, Pamukkale again leads with 20% of the total energy production, followed by Acıpayam with 18.6%. Babadağ has the lowest energy yield from waste. In terms of transportation and technical infrastructure, the region is supported by a widespread network, as shown in the relevant infrastructure and transport maps, facilitating connectivity and service access across districts.

A: Region with High Agricultural Waste

The A1 region is characterized by an abundance of plant and animal waste, fertile agricultural land, and prominent grape and wine production. It also features recreational areas and intensive hydroelectric power plant zones.

The A2 region also has abundant plant and animal waste, fertile agricultural land, but faces challenges with insufficient irrigation areas and high diesel usage. Additionally, there are coal reserves in this area.

The A3 region benefits from abundant plant waste, sufficient irrigation areas, and fertile agricultural land, supporting nature and cultural tourism. It is also known for chickpea and roasted chickpea production and trade.

The A4 region, with its forest and animal waste, also has fertile agricultural land and is a hub for cultural tourism, highland tourism, and beekeeping. The area also hosts solid waste disposal facilities.

In the A5 region, agricultural waste is minimal, and it is rich in specialty products, abundant water resources, and offers highland and nature tourism. This area is hilly and rugged.

B: Region with High Industrial Waste

The B1 region experiences significant textile waste and includes the Sarayköy, Çürüksu, and Kaklık plains. It is home to the ancient cities of Laodicea, Trapezopolis, and Attuda, as well as the Pamukkale and Karahayıt geothermal fields. The area is also rich in high-quality mineral deposits.

The B2 region, while also possessing fertile agricultural land, faces abundant textile and agricultural waste. It is a thermal tourism center with hot springs and an airport, in addition to being a key area for marble production.

1 / 100.000 Environmental Master Plan

Purpose and Scope

The main objective of the Environmental Plan for Denizli Province is to guide environmentally conscious development by transforming local products into high value-added raw materials. The plan covers the entire administrative boundary of Denizli and includes planning goals, analyses, and the identification of existing and potential issues.

Planning Objectives

Ensuring a balanced approach between conservation and land use throughout the region.
Structuring settlement hierarchy and distribution based on internal dynamics and development potential.
Promoting sectoral development by valuing local opportunities while incorporating waste recycling within sectors.
Reducing existing environmental pollution in air, water, and soil, and preventing future contamination.

Planning Principles

1. Conservation Principles

Protecting prime agricultural lands, irrigated areas, and special product zones in line with national land use regulations.
Prioritizing the preservation of natural pastures, meadows, wetlands, forests, and ecologically rich habitats.
Implementing measures to reduce urban development pressures on protected areas.
Relocating settlements located under energy transmission lines and designating them as passive green zones.

2. Spatial Planning Principles

Defining directions and stages of urban and rural growth based on population projections.
Integrating conservation priorities and sectoral trends into land-use decisions.
Developing risk-mitigating land use strategies in disaster-prone areas.
Preventing irregular development and encouraging holistic and integrated lower-scale planning.
Ensuring the preservation and sustainable use of energy resource zones, water basins, and mineral reserves in compliance with legal frameworks.
Promoting the use of renewable energy (wind, solar, geothermal) particularly in infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism.

3. Symbiotic City Principles for Denizli

Leveraging local cultural, historical, and geographical assets to enhance regional development.
Supporting R&D and technology-based production and circular economy models.
Fostering agricultural-industrial integration to create new employment opportunities.
Addressing deficiencies in transport, storage, and infrastructure across districts.
Fostering a healthier and more environmentally conscious society.

4. Development Principles

Coordinating social, economic, cultural, and spatial development across the planning region.
Developing urban land uses in a way that protects water resources, forests, agricultural lands, and ecologically sensitive areas.
Promoting sustainable conservation of economic, social, and natural values in rural settlements.
Controlling urban growth, avoiding excessive population concentration, and encouraging balanced distribution.
Ensuring that all development respects natural thresholds and avoids damage to productive lands and renewable resource zones.
Encouraging industrial development within Organized Industrial Zones (OIZs) and transforming these into eco-industrial parks.

Implementation Provisions for Urban Settlement Areas

Urban settlements include both developed and development areas; lower-scale plans must align with population and area standards defined in the Environmental Plan's explanatory report.

These areas may accommodate residential, educational, healthcare, recreational, public institutions, commercial zones, small industrial sites, tourism facilities, and non-residential urban workspaces.

However, Organized Industrial Zones, large-scale industry, and facilities for the storage of raw materials and products are not permitted within designated urban settlements.

Download

To explore the planning decisions in greater depth, the complete project report (Turkish) is available for download here.