Functional Transformations in Urban Areas: The Impact of Changing Residential to Commercial Uses. A Case Study of Al-Khums’ 20th Street, Libya

Abstract

The issue of changing residential use to commercial use should receive a significant portion of the state's attention, given its widespread prevalence in most Libyan cities. It represents a waste of Financial and human resources, as residential characteristics have a clear impact on the social reality of society. This research seeks to examine the implications of converting residential buildings into commercial facilities, and the social and planning challenges associated with this functional transformation, which is often implemented according to standards that do not align with those of commercial streets that meet the needs of both visitors and residents, and provide privacy and security. The research dealt with studying the most important main areas in the city of Al-Khums, specifically its main street, which is a double main street surrounded by residential buildings with medium population densities, and the stages of changing its function to commercial use, explaining the reasons for this change and its impact on residents and users of the street who do not live there. Based on these results, the study recommends adopting a balanced and strategic approach to developing these streets, with detailed planning and design controls for each area and type of use, upgrading existing commercial streets, creating alternative routes, addressing traffic congestion, and improving pedestrian sidewalks. In addition to conducting social studies to assess the impact of commercial transformation on social ties and the sense of belonging among residents, and raising community awareness of the importance of urban planning to ensure a suitable urban environment.