Applied Research in Geographical Sciences

Applied Research in Geographical Sciences

Strategic planning for sustainable urban regeneration in underdeveloped neighborhoods, case study: Nasiriyah city, Iraq

Articles in Press
Authors
Safaa Nayef Soltan Al-Hamami
Ali Sadeghi
Amirreza Khavarian Garmsiri
Abstract
In the city of Naseriyah, uneven urban development trends—caused by weaknesses in the planning system, unequal distribution of public services, and the concentration of investment in central or specific areas—have led to deep spatial disparities between neighborhoods. Consequently, spatial inequality acts as a structural barrier to sustainable development. This study seeks to propose appropriate strategic approaches for achieving urban sustainable development and spatial justice using a combination of SWOT and QSPM tools. Accordingly, in line with the research objective, this study is descriptive-analytical in nature. Data collection was carried out through both documentary-library and field methods. The statistical population includes experts and university faculty members active in the field of urban planning and management. A total of 30 participants were selected as the research sample through purposive sampling until theoretical saturation was reached. Data analysis was conducted using the combined strategic analysis model (SWOT) and the Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix (QSPM). The results showed that based on the final score of 2.276 in the Internal Factor Evaluation (IFE) matrix and 2.537 in the External Factor Evaluation (EFE) matrix, the selected strategy falls into cell (V) of the strategy matrix, indicating a "conservative strategy" approach. Additionally, results from the QSPM model revealed that, based on the attractiveness weight scores, the top strategic priority is “designing and implementing a comprehensive urban plan to achieve sustainable urban development.” This is followed, in order of priority, by “reforming the structure of urban management,” “enhancing public services,” “economic sustainability with an emphasis on spatial justice,” “rebuilding waste and sewage infrastructure,” and “developing heritage-based tourism utilizing local capacities.” Achieving urban sustainability requires simultaneous attention to economic, social, environmental, and cultural dimensions, as well as strategic planning and targeted interventions.
Keywords
Strategic planning
urban sustainability
Underdeveloped neighborhoods
Naseriyah city
SWOT–QSPM model
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Applied Research in Geographical Sciences

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 21 March 2007