RESTORING SOCIAL SUSTAINABILITY TO HISTORIC URBAN NEIGHBORHOODS BY ENHANCING THE PLACE ATTACHMENT

(CASE STUDY: MOORDESTAN NEIGHBORHOOD, SHIRAZ, IRAN)

Abstract

According to the research literature, there is a lack of theoretical and empirical research on social sustainability and the “social” dimension of sustainable development has just recently been included in the discussions. On the other hand, due to insufficient attention to the concepts of sense of place and place attachment in the research literature, this study was conducted to identify these concepts in urban studies and evaluate the definitions and theories associated with this conception in relation to the concept of social sustainability. Finally, by examining the theories of experts and global experiences, we reached common indicators between the two concepts.

The historical city of Shiraz is in danger of losing one of its most valued historic neighborhoods (Moordestan neighborhood) due to the decline of spatial values, the process of leaving the original inhabitants and the migration of low-income people to the region. According to the research findings, the study area is in an unacceptable state in terms of social, cultural, economic, and physical aspects. Indicators of safety, variety of activities and social interactions were evaluated as analysis variables in this neighborhood, all of which are in poor condition, but the presence of valuable urban elements and historical identity of Moordestan neighborhood, provides numerous opportunities to improve the neighborhood’s social sustainability.

Key words

Social Sustainability, Place Attachment, Sense of Place, Place, Sustainability, Historic Neighborhood, Iran, Shiraz