Citizen Participation and Sense of Community in the Development of the Permanent Conservation Project Plan

Abstract

Algeria is a country known for its diversity. Indeed, each of its regions stands out for its urban landscape, heritage, customs and traditions. The urban landscape of the Souf region is exceptional. This one is known for the originality of its architecture. Its two old districts "Messaaba and Acheche" having the status of safeguarded sector since the year 2013, were endowed with a project of elaboration of the permanent plan of safeguarding. The citizen is a key element in this project because it is the element that makes this heritage live. Therefore, citizen dialogue must be at the heart of the project process. To facilitate the consultation process and win public confidence for its full support to projects, it is necessary to establish a collaborative approach and establish mechanisms connecting the project. The effectiveness of its participation depends on individual differences. These variables could be demographic (age groups, educational level, economic context ... .etc), personality, or sense of community. The purpose of this article is to examine sense of community level that influences the process of participation of citizens concerned by the elaboration of the permanent safeguarding plan project, through a survey that was initiated with the inhabitants of two old districts "Messaaba and Acheche" to the city of El Oued.