The Evaluation of Urban Development Plans Based on Interconnectedness and Connectivity Principle using AHP Model Case Study: Imam Ali Square Revitalization Plan in Isfahan

In this article, factors influencing the integrity of the historic fabric of urban development projects are studied. Integration is one of the main features of the historic fabric of cities with hot and dry climates which is influenced by urban development projects. Reviewing theoretical and empirical literature revealed that integration criteria is classified under five categories that include unification, interconnectedness and connectivity, porosity, authenticity and vulnerability. To investigate the effects of urban development plans on these criteria, the Revitalization of Imam Ali Square project, as one of the most important projects concerning the regeneration of the integrity of the historic fabric, was selected. This project was implemented in the crowded area of central Isfahan. The square dates back to eight hundred years ago. The open space of the square has been occupied since almost two hundred years ago, and just recently authorities decided to revitalize it. After introducing and surveying the case study area, the effects of the revitalization project on Imam Ali Square were examined based on the twenty-one sub-criteria of connectivity and interconnectedness of which information existed. Linkage and connectivity of access network, linkage and connectivity of landuses and functions, linkage and connectivity through revitalization of ancient buildings and ruins, linkage and connectivity of mass and space, linkage and connectivity of urban spaces walls and linkage and connectivity through the density are the six main criteria of interconnedtedness and connectivity principle. An analytical hierarchy process (AHP) was used to evaluate the project. In this research, the way AHP was carried out differed from the general way it is carried out in urban planning. That is because in the general use of AHP, several alternative plans exist whereas in this survey only one plan or option existed. Evaluating one plan by AHP needs three hypothetical alternatives. The plan can be compared with an acceptable hypothetical alternative, a desirable hypothetical alternative and an ideal hypothetical alternative. The overall result of the evaluation shows that the regeneration of Imam Ali Square is at an acceptable level. After comparing the hypothetical state of the present plan with the various criteria, the results indicate that the main criteria of interconnectedness and connectivity is far from the ideal state. Thus, although the physical-spatial criteria of integration are reasonable, it must be revised with an emphasis on process and flexibility in order to achieve better integration. The conclusion also shows how AHP can be used as a quantitive tool for evaluating qualitative criteria by assuming other alternatives. Possible solutions for reintegration of historic fabrics through revitalization plans include active participation of local community, urban design and transportation solutions of main access paths and streets for decreasing car speed, determination of urban design guidelines regarding quantity and quality of building new paths and widening existing paths in the peripheral areas of urban spaces. In addition to these guidelines, other solutions for the reintegration of urban historic fabrics are gradual development of street networks, flexibility of revitalization plans, small scale development and avoiding large scale ruins and demolitions, and paying attention to the current community needs and desires.