The effects of urban expansion on cultural landscapes - Case study of Bursa

Abstract

The expansion in population and in parallel in the urban sphere has caused radical changes in the structure of landscapes. This study investigates the effects of expansion in the urban sphere and diversity in area use on cultural landscapes in Bursa. Analyses of urban landscape change are maintained by the comparison of two plans of Central Metropolitan Planning Zone made 19-years apart and the chronological assessment of city plans prepared in country planning hierarchy. Comparisons and assessments are made with GIS (geographical information system). Even though the limits of planning expanded within years and the plans made preservation offers related with cultural landscaping with agricultural areas first on the list, it is seen that the use of urban and rural landscaping has varied and therefore cultural landscapes have changed in an unsustainable manner. It is concluded that in order to be able to put forward sustainable development strategies for cultural landscapes the changes in landscapes should be analyzed and landscapes be defined. © 2011 Academic Journals.