The impact of transformation and change in the public spaces on the city identity " İstanbul Bakırkoy coast sample"

Since the 1980's, as many metropolises in the world, Istanbul also has begun to be transformed by neoliberal policies. The globalization as a phenomenon that shapes the world today brings about great changes and transformations in cities as well as in every field. While urban transformation processes affect many areas in cities, the need for public spaces is increasing day by day. The interventions to urban green spaces, recreational spaces, coastal and beach areas that gives the identity of the city, which is also needed by its population, calls for attention. In this research, the impact of the transformation in public space on urban identity of Bakırköy, which is one of the most important coastal districts of Istanbul; were examined based on its effects on natural, built and social environment. In this day and time many cities around the world face with concretion and the problems brought with it, and they were examined through the case of Bakırköy coast, which is one of the main elements of the city. While the need for public spaces is increasing day by day, the effects of these areas' disappearance have been investigated with its physical and social aspects. Face-to-face interviews were made with people who frequents the Bakırköy coast. In addition, the transformation process was discussed with the commissioners. The data on decisions on planning, licensing and housing resettlement procedures of the research area were analyzed by interviews with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, TOKI and Bakirkoy Municipality. Key Words: Globalization, Public Space, Urban Transformation, City Identity, Bakırkoy Coast.