Key stakeholders and operation processes in the regeneration of historical urban fabrics in Iran

Abstract

This article is a comprehensive study about the process of regeneration of historical urban fabrics of Iran through the role played by its main stakeholders. A thorough analysis of the relevant legislation was carried out to establish the background of the research, followed by a survey to identify the main bodies and their importance in the regeneration process. The analysis of the results shows the existing conflicts among the different bodies with responsibilities in the regeneration process, due to the absence of a codified duty description, and the deficiencies arising from the lack of adequate participation of local people and NGOs in the process. The analysis underscores the necessity of implementing both a comprehensive legal system and an integrated management system. The study proposes a preliminary solution to deal with governance and institutional problems in the regeneration process of historical fabrics in Iran that could be useful for countries with similar political structures and the need to preserve their urban heritage.