Historical urban planning analysis of the Kama and Toima riverside areas (on the example of the city of Elabuga in the 19TH -20TH century)

Abstract

In cities on large rivers, increasing attention is being given to coastal areas as the basis for their sustainable development. At the same time, most of the development proposals are too radical and require significant financial investments that are not available in small cities. To make the right decisions, a historical urban-planning analysis is required to identify the reasons for the decline of coastal areas, and further arguments are needed in support of decisions for their transformation. This study is an attempt to verify the statement that the sustainable development of coastal areas should take into account the previous evolutionary trends, and their development needs to be monitored regularly in order to make timely adjustments to their functional zoning. Using the example of the old city of Elabuga located on two rivers, Kama and Toima, the main reasons influencing its zoning are highlighted. Depending on momentary interest in a particular function, it may either evolve and flourish or fall in decline, but is never completely driven out. Based on the analysis, a potential path for the development of coastal areas is identified by raising social interest and demand for historical functions through their renovation, additions, and improvement of accessibility.