Urban regeneration projects and relocation: Example of Antalya Kepez and santral neighbourhoods

Urban regeneration projects constitute a preferred form of intervention in urban policies in Turkey after the 2000s. Studies by researchers from different disciplines reveal that the most common result of urban regeneration projects is displacement. However, although the relevant literature has finding on the occurrence of displacement processes for various projects, they remain weak in terms of tracing the displaced residents. This study traces the households that had to move from Antalya Kepez and Santral neighborhood after the urban regeneration project. The main purpose of the study is to reveal the movement patterns of displaced households and causes that shaped those movements. Moreover, satisfaction levels with urban regeneration is also questioned. To achieve these goals, this study utilizes quantitative and qualitative data sets. Within the scope of the study, it has been determined that the households who were forced to move preferred neighborhoods close to the project area. Furthermore, households have stated that their attitude towards the urban regeneration project were negative and their social ties and connections were affected by the project. Finally, location advantage, kinship and neighborly relations, and affordability of rents are found to be the main factors during the preference of new neighborhoods.