Rehousing in urban renewal projects in Constantine, Between integration and residential satisfaction: Post-occupancy study of rehousing operations in Ali Mendjeli

Department of Architecture, Bioclimatic Architecture and Environment Laboratory (ABE), University of Constantine 3, Salah Boubnider, Constantine, 25115, Algeria

^* Corresponding author: asma.leghmouche@univ-constantine3.dz

Abstract

This study examines the relocation operations produced in the context of urban renewal, focusing on their impact on residents’ lifestyles health, and well-being. Conducted in Constantine, Algeria, it relies on surveys of residential satisfaction with relocated households in social housing in the new city of Ali Mendjeli. Specifically targeting the relocation of residents from the disadvantaged neighborhoods like slums, areas affected by landslides and ancient buildings in the Old City. The study emphasizes the environmental impact of relocation operations by comparing old neighborhoods, such as slums and dilapidated housing, with new housing, it aims to understand their influence in changing urban practices and improving residents’ living conditions. The research employs a methodological protocol combining qualitative and quantitative approaches; the survey, based on a post-occupancy evaluation, was conducted with 400 households relocated between 2000-2017. Results reveal a strong correlation between the objective and subjective characteristics of housing, living environment, and social environment. Testimonies gathered confirm that household satisfaction results from the combination of these different factors. Furthermore, the statistical analysis confirms that urban renewal, as it is practiced today boils down to a simple relocation of households to a new environment without any care or concern of the families after their relocation, or for the future of the vacated real estate.