The Resolution of Urban Conflicts Related to Redevelopment in a Big Russian City (The Case of Samara)

The focus of the present study is the phenomenon of urban conflicts related to redevelopment in a big Russian city (the case of Samara). Definitions of the terms ‘urban environment’, ‘urban conflict’ and ‘redevelopment’ are formulated. The subjects of urban environment formation are found; the main reasons for the emergence of spatial contradictions and the mechanisms of their resolution are analyzed; the classifications of the redevelopment practices are given. The mechanisms of the resolution of urban conflicts related to redevelopment are classified based on the experience of different cities throughout the world. Empirical part of the research is dedicated to the analysis of the urban conflict related to redevelopment in one of the historical quarters of Samara. Case-study methodology is used. Local laws related to the development of built-up areas are analyzed, and the method of content analysis is applied to the citizens’ petition on change.org as well as to more than 30 local mass media publications on the topic of study. As a result, the main actors of the conflict are shown and their aims, positions and interests are articulated. Deep-root reasons for the chosen urban conflict related to redevelopment are found. It is argued that this conflict is embedded in a broader urban context and connected to the acute problems of the city. The status-quo is interpreted as the termination but not true resolution of the contradiction. Recommendations related to its effective resolution are proposed, such as public-private partnership program. The need for systematic approach to the regulation of urban conflicts related to redevelopment is emphasized.