A Qualitative Analysis of the Economic Challenges of Urban Core Regeneration Projects in Iran: A Case Study of Mashhad City Center

Document Type : Independent Research Articles

Authors

1 Ph.D. Candidate in Geography and Urban Planning, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

2 Professor of Geography and Urban Planning, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

3 Associate Professor of Geography and Urban Planning, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

Abstract

This research aims to systematically analyze the economic challenges of urban center revitalization plans in Iran, with an emphasis on central Mashhad, through the Meta-Synthesis method. In this regard, by searching relevant keywords in reputable domestic and international databases, including SID, Google Scholar, Noormags, and ScienceDirect, 712 initial articles were identified. After implementing a multi-stage screening process, 123 qualitative articles that directly addressed the analysis of challenges and obstacles to the renovation and regeneration of central deteriorated urban fabrics in Iranian cities, especially Mashhad, focusing on economic dimensions, were selected for final analysis. The collected qualitative data were analyzed using the Grounded Theory framework through open, axial, and selective coding. Additionally, the axial code “Changes in the Neighborhoods’ Economic Structure” was extracted as one of the economic consequences for residents resulting from the inefficient implementation or halt of these plans. Ultimately, “The Failure of Economic Management of Mashhad's Urban Renewal and Improvement Plans due to Poor Coordination among Decision-Making Institutions, the Economic Incapacity of Fabric Residents, and Macroeconomic Policies, Inflation, and Sanctions” was identified as the core category. The results indicate that renewal and improvement policies, instead of acting as a platform for economic revival and the promotion of spatial justice, have primarily been organized to serve the interests of powerful economic actors based on project-oriented approaches, thereby deepening economic and spatial disparities in central urban areas. Therefore, resolving the existing challenges requires a fundamental transformation in three areas: redefining the concept of development based on spatial justice, reforming the governance structure and establishing transparent institutions, and shifting the planning approach from land-oriented to people-centered development.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Urban Structure and Function Studies
Volume 13, Issue 2
June 2026
Pages 89-107

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History

  • Receive Date: 08 June 2025
  • Revise Date: 18 September 2025
  • Accept Date: 20 January 2026

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